Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Private Russell R. Buchanan (MCSN: 385443), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism displayed in the rescue of a comrade from a bay off the south shore of Tulagi Island, British Solomon Islands on 20 June 1943. Private Buchanan noticed the dangerous predicament of a member of a Naval Construction Battalion who was unable to reach the shore and who was in imminent peril of drowning. He immediately swam the distance of approximately 200 yards and supported the exhausted man in the water until a rescue boat arrived. His courageous conduct contributed directly to the saving of the man’s life and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Private First Class

    Action Date:

    August 2, 1944
    Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force Pacific: Serial 00421-45 (February 8, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Private First Class Russell R. Buchanan (MCSN: 385443), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism on Guam, Mariana Islands, on 2 August 1944, in rescuing a Marine from drowning. Under conditions of great personal danger from stormy seas and with complete disregard for his own safety, Private First Class Buchanan was making little or no progress in bringing the man to shore. He kept the man afloat until a line was brought out with which they were pulled ashore. His courageous conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.