Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Coast Guard Medal

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Boatswain’s Mate Second Class

    Action Date:

    January 5, 1980

    U.S. Coast Guard Historian’s Office

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Christopher P. Truppa, United States Coast Guard, was awarded the Coast Guard Medal for extraordinary heroism on 5 January 1980 when he assisted in the rescue of two men from the grounded barge MICHEL F in the turbulent surf near Little Egg Inlet, New Jersey. Upon notification of the grounding, Petty Officer Truppa departed Coast Guard Station New Haven on board Coast Guard Motor Life Boat CG-44355 and proceeded to the scene despite heavy surf and a driving snowstorm. Arriving on scene, the barge was observed engulfed in 20-foot breakers, lying broadside to the surf, approximately 1-mile offshore. As the coxswain maneuvered the CG-44355 closer to the hapless barge, Petty Officer Truppa braved the heavy surf and blinding snow while moving hand-over-hand along the rail toward the bow of the motor life boat. to assist in the rescue. Petty Officer Truppa demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.