Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class

    Action Date:

    February 22 – 23, 1998

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class Kenneth S. Buxton, United States Coast Guard, for heroism while participating in aerial flight from 22 to 23 February 1998 as rescue swimmer aboard Coast Guard helicopter CG6017. The aircrew was engaged in the medical evacuation of a critically injured crewman from the M/V HEKABE, a 713-foot tanker disabled and adrift amid a severe winter storm, 180 miles south of Adak, Alaska. Dispatched from Air Station Kodiak, Petty Officer Buxton provided vital fuel consumption backup on a two-day, 1200-mile transit through 60-knot headwinds, severe turbulence, moderate icing, and zero visibility in blowing snow and fog. When CG6017 arrived on scene, the M/V HEKABE was unable to hold course, violently pitching and rolling in 40-foot seas. Despite a direct 60-knot crosswind, Petty Officer Buxton expertly conned the aircraft commander to a position amidships between towering rigging and deftly hoisted the rescue swimmer on the storm swept deck. When the patient was ready for pickup, Petty Officer Buxton conned the aircraft commander back into position among the wildly swinging swaying stacks and safely recovered the patient. While preparing to hoist the rescue swimmer, the ship was struck by an enormous swell, causing a 40-degree roll. Concerned the rescue swimmer would be washed overboard or injured, Petty Officer Buxton immediately conned the pilot up and away from the rigging thereby snatching the rescue swimmer from the hazardous deck. Petty Officer Buxton’s actions, professional skill, and valor were instrumental the rescue of the M/V HEKABE’s crewman. His courage, judgment, and devotion to duty are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.