Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Petty Officer Third Class

    Batallion:

    2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion

    Division:

    2d Marine Division (Forward)

    Action Date:

    September 28, 2011

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Petty Officer Third Class Charles C. Carolus, United States Navy, for heroism while serving as Senior Line Corpsman, Company C, Second Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, SECOND Marine Division (Forward), II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), Afghanistan on 28 September 2011 in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. During an aerial interdiction operation with elements of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron TWO HUNDRED SIXTY-NINE, an AH-1W Helicopter crashed on takeoff. Upon being alerted of the incident, Petty Officer Carolus immediately responded from an adjacent helicopter and sprinted 75 yards to the crash site. Demonstrating gallantry and unwavering courage, he willingly and unhesitatingly exposed himself to imminent lethal hazards from fire, noxious fumes, and a potential conflagration from spilled fuel and live ordnance. While under constant peril from the fire, he provided medical aid to a severely wounded Marine. His selfless actions contributed to the lifesaving effort of the injured crew. Once the scene was secure, Petty Officer Carolus resumed his duties as the Senior Line Corpsman, ensuring medical waste was disposed of, and sanitizing all personnel involved. Petty Officer Carolus, in disregarding personal danger to rush to the aid of injured Marines, exemplified valor and dedication to service before self. By his courageous and prompt actions in the face of great personal risk, Petty Officer Carolus prevented the loss of life, thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.