Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Specialist Third Class

    Action Date:

    October 3, 1955

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 25 (June 27, 1956)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Specialist Third Class Galen L. Luchau, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy near South Wolmi Do Island, Inchon Port, Korea, on 3 October 1955. As a landing craft approach the island, a sudden jarring of the boat flung a crew member into the deep choppy water. Realizing that the darkness of the night made immediate action imperative, Specialist Luchau unhesitatingly kicked off his shoes, plunged into the water and swam to the rescue of the unconscious man. Supporting the limp crew man, he struggled to keep afloat as a swift tide threatened to sweep them out to sea. After some minutes his call for help attracted the attention of others in the boat who tossed him a lifejacket and directed the coxswain to turn back. Specialist Luchau’s courageous and unselfish action reflects utmost credit on himself and upholds the esteemed tradition of the military service.