Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Coast Guard

    Rank:

    Aviation Survival Technician First Class

    Action Date:

    August 30 – September 4, 2005

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Survival Technician First Class John C. Williams, United States Coast Guard, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight from 30 August 2005 to 4 September 2005 during Hurricane KATRINA rescue operations. Demonstrating exemplary skill and superlative physical stamina, Petty Officer Watson served as Rescue Swimmer aboard Coast Guard helicopters for over 25 flight hours flying day and night rescue missions in a hazardous urban disaster environment. On the night of August 30 Petty Officer Watson deployed to the ruins of an apartment complex where he was quickly besieged by a group of desperate survivors. When threatened by a group of men demanding evacuation, he quickly and forcefully asserted himself as their only chance for rescue, gaining their compliance. As rescue efforts unfolded and chaos ensued, Petty Officer Watson was forced to physically restrain individuals rushing the rescue basket. He calmly took command of the situation, and managed the hostile group until everyone was rescued. On September 1, Petty Officer Watson found himself atop the roof of a hotel where over 300 panic stricken survivors gathered following four days without food or water. While leading the rescue efforts of three swimmers, he had a loaded pistol drawn on him by a man demanding to be hoisted next. As the senior and most experienced member on-scene, he directly confronted the man and deescalated the tension. After guaranteeing the lower floors were clear, he further divided the survivors into two groups, combative and cooperative. With one swimmer guarding the combative group, the remaining two swimmers prepared survivors for hoisting. Petty Officer Watson’ composure, professionalism and leadership in the face of grave danger brought order to a riotous situation and enabled the safe and orderly rescue of over 300 survivors. On the night of September 2 while hovering at over 200′, he bravely departed the aircraft and maneuvered through a six foot gap surrounded by power lines in order to reach survivors. He completed this dangerous evolution three times, each time shielding the survivors from the hazards with his own body. His actions and valor were instrumental in saving 120 lives. 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.