44ft Motor Lifeboats
My thanks go to the U.S. Coast Guard Historian's Office for allowing me to use the information.

Congress authorized the establishment of the Coast Guard Medal (Public Law 207 of the 81st Congress) on 4 August 1949. The actual medal was designed by Thomas Hudson Jones of the United States Army's Institute of Heraldry. As designed, the seal of the Coast Guard appears in the center of a bronze octagon. The seal is contained within a border of continuous cable. The octagon shape is copied from the Soldier's Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, and the seal in the center refers to Coast Guard service. The border of continuous cable refers to both naval service and perfection of ideals in the service of man. The medal's ribbon is decorated with central and edge stripes of light blue and centered on either half of the ribbon is a field of white containing three red stripes. The colors were adapted from those of the Coast Guard seal.

The Coast Guard Medal is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces who, while serving in any capacity with the Coast Guard, distinguishes himself or herself by heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy. To justify this decoration, the individual must have performed a voluntary act of heroism in the face of great personal danger of such a magnitude that it stands out distinctly above normal expectations.

The following are the Coast Guard Medal award citations (where available) for those Coast Guardsmen who were awarded the Coast Guard Medal, while serving on 44' Motor Lifeboats. The names are listed in alphabetical order by last name.

If anyone has a copy of a citation or any information that is not included in the list, please let me know. I would also be interested in any photos relating to these rescues. e-mail

Please also follow the link above to the U.S. Coast Guard Historian's Office to read the other citations to gain knowledge of the brave and rich history of the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard.

Name Index

Recipient's Name - Rate/Rank - Date of Action - 44' MLB
BAUER, Wayne Marvin - BM1 - 1974 - 44331
BOSLEY, David A. - BM2 - 1997- 44363
CASSIMUS, Ernest Spiro - FN - 1969 - 44387
CRAVEY, Adam D. - FN - 1996 - 44352
DIXON, Richard D. - BM1 - 1980 - 44409
DIXON, Richard D. - BM1 - 1980 - 44409
DIXON, Russell Bernard Jr. - EN3 - 1965 - 44324
D'ORNELLAS, John C. - SN - 1980 - 44303
FRIDAY, Robert Garlon - SN - 1968 - 44303
GALVIN, Kevin J. - BM2 - 1982 - 44315
GREER, Matthew C. - BM2 - 1980 - 44355
GRIGSBY, Danny Leon - SN - 1971 - 44361
HINCHCLIFF, Ronald Lee - EN3 - 1965 - 44324
HOFFMAN, William R. - BM1 - 1963 - 44305
HOGUE, Andy P. - EMC - 1970 - 44324?
HOWELLS, Sean H. - BM3 - 1980 - 44309
KALLELIS, John A. - SN - 1982 - 44315
KELLEY, Todd M. - MK3 - 1984 - 44318
KLEUSKENS, Jeffrey A. - MK2 - 1978 - 44355
LANGLOIS, George R. - BM2 - 1980 - 44379
LANGSTAFF, Eric M. - MK3 - 1980 - 44355
LARUE, Joe S. - SN - 1980 - 44409
McADAMS, Thomas David - BMC - 1968 - 44303
MICHAEL, William R. - MK3 - 1980 - 44409
MINIKEN, Clinton P. - SN - 1997 - 44363
NELSON, Thomas Everett - EN2 - 1963 - 44305
PINER, Billy W. - MK3 - 1977 - 44350
QUINN, Daryl G. - SA - 1980 - 44355
RECTOR, James Harold - EN1 - 1968 - 44303
REHBERG, John Charles - BM2 - 1971 - 44361
ROSS, Robert Mark - SN - 1970 - 44234
SCHLIMME, Matthew E. - MK3 - 1997 - 44363
SEXTON, Charles W. - MK1 - 1991 - 44381
SKARVOLD, Gary Lee - EN2 - 1967 44364
SMITH, Stephen R. - BM3 - 1980 - 44409
STEVENS, Elmer Allen - BMC - 1964 - 44303
SWANK, William R. - BM2 - 1978 - 44355
TRUPPA, Christopher P. - BM2 - 1980 - 44355
UNDERWOOD, Michael L. - BM3 - 1996 - 44352
VENNIE, Mark L. - SA - 1980 - 44355
WEAVER, Charles C. III - BM3 - 1978 - 44355
WHITE, Richard C. - MK2 - 1981 - 44400
WHITE, Robert M. - SA - 1980 - 44355
WINGO, Benjamin F. - SN - 1997 - 44363

Citations

BAUER, Wayne Marvin, Boatswain's Mate First Class, USCG

Date of Action: 20 January 1974
Date of Award: 08 July 1974

Petty Officer BAUER is cited for heroism on the evening of 20 January 1974 while serving as coxswain of motor lifeboat CG-44331, assigned to Coast Guard Station Umpqua River at Winchester Bay, Oregon, engaged in the perilous rescue of three persons from the heavy-laden fishing vessel HOLMES which had attempted to cross the Umpqua Entrance Bar. The HOLMES, one of five fishing vessels returning with a cargo of crabs, after waiting for a temporary calm, was entering the river when she was overtaken by a series of 10 to 12-foot breakers and rendered inoperative. As the turbulent surf swung the fishing boat around to the south side of the South Jetty, she was slammed violently and repeatedly against the jetty and the cabin and steering gear were smashed. The CG-44331 was on bar patrol because of the hazardous bar conditions when Petty Officer BAUER observed the HOLMES taking the large breaking sea and being veered sharply to starboard, ultimately crashing into the jetty. Perceiving the imminent danger to the fishermen, he immediately proceeded through the breakers; skillfully maneuvered the 44-foot lifeboat through the jetty breakers alongside the crippled vessel; and returned to Umpqua Station with the survivors where they were treated for hypothermia and released without injuries. Petty Officer BAUER's initiative and courageous actions contributed to saving the lives of the three-man-crew. His unselfishness and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

BOSLEY, David A., Boatswain's Mate Second Class, USCG (Posthumously Awarded)

Date of Action: 12 February 1997
Date of Award: 18 February 1997

Petty Officer BOSLEY is cited for extraordinary heroism on 12 February 1997 while serving as a crew member aboard Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat 44363, attached to Coast Guard Station Quillayute River. Shortly before 1 o'clock in the morning, responding to a distress call from the sailing vessel GALE RUNNER, Station Quillayute River launched two rescue boats. The operator of GALE RUNNER reported that the vessel was dismasted, taking on water, and in danger of sinking, 2 miles south of the Quillayute River entrance. Seas of up to 25 feet, combined with high winds and driving rain, created a situation of imminent danger for the two people aboard the GALE RUNNER. Soon after crossing the treacherous bar in an attempt to reach the stricken sailboat, the motor lifeboat suddenly rolled over several times in the surf and confused seas. As a result of the repeated roll-overs, Petty Officer BOSLEY was forcibly separated from his rescue craft and thrown into the churning ocean. A Coast Guard HH-65 helicopter from Air Station Port Angeles was able to hoist to safety the two people from the GALE RUNNER as it crashed onto rocks. As a crew member of Coast Guard 44363, Petty Officer BOSLEY willingly entered extreme ocean storm conditions and sacrificed his life while attempting to save the lives of the two people from the GALE RUNNER. Petty Officer BOSLEY demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His courage and devotion to duty are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Miniken, Clinton P., Schlimme, Matthew E., and Wingo, Benjamin F.)

CASSIMUS, Ernest Spiro, Fireman, USCG

Date of Action: 13 April 1969
Date of Award: 16 May 1969

For heroism on the morning of 13 April 1969 while serving as a crew member of CG-44387 engaged in the rescue of five persons from a capsized pleasure craft in the surging surf off Clatsop Spit, Columbia River, Ilwaco, Washington. The CG-44387 had warned the crew of the pleasure craft of the approaching ebb tide, escorted her to mid-channel, and departed. Approximately 30 minutes later the pleasure craft was caught in the dangerous breakers and capsized in the 15-foot seas. CG-44387 immediately returned to the scene and located three survivors clinging to the stern of the overturned boat and two persons holding onto a gas can. Fireman CASSIMUS assisted in pulling three victims to safety as the CG-44387 was maneuvered in the breaking surf. When one man was observed floating away unconscious and face-down after being slammed against the CG-44387 by the breakers, Fireman CASSIMUS, without hesitation, jumped into the heavy seas, assisted the severely injured man, supported him until arrival of a helicopter, and then placed him in the helicopter rescue basket for evacuation. The CG-44387 subsequently rescued the last survivor and departed for shore as the helicopter hoisted Fireman CASSIMUS aboard. Fireman CASSIMUS demonstrated initiative and fortitude, in spite of extreme personal danger, during this rescue. His courage, unselfish actions, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

CRAVEY, Adam D., Fireman, USCG

Date of Action: 19 January 1996
Date of Award: 09 February 1996

Fireman CRAVEY is cited for extraordinary heroism on the afternoon of 19 January 1996 while serving as Boat Crewman on board Coast Guard motor lifeboat 44352 during the perilous rescue of six crewmen from the tug SCANDIA during a fierce winter storm. The Coast Guard received a distress call from the SCANDIA reporting they were on fire 4 miles south of Point Judith, Rhode Island. The motor lifeboat [was] dispatched from Station Point Judith and arrived on scene to find the six victims on the bow off the burning tug trying to escape the fire which was raging out of control. After successfully removing one victim and maneuvering to rescue the remaining five, an explosion rocked the tug, blowing out the pilothouse windows and forcing the remaining crewmen into the freezing waters of Block Island Sound. Without hesitation, Fireman CRAVEY, the designated rescue swimmer, determined that his risk of hypothermia was overshadowed by the risk to the crewmen in the water. Wearing only his anti-exposure coveralls, Fireman CRAVEY successfully assisted the tug's crewmen into the motor lifeboat and was the last one out of the water. Fireman CRAVEY demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His courage and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Underwood, Michael L.)

DIXON, Richard D., Boatswain's Mate First Class, USCG

Date of Action: 03 July 1980
Date of Award: 02 February 1981

Petty Officer DIXON is cited for heroism on the afternoon of 3 July 1980 while serving as the coxswain of Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat (MLB) 44409. During this period he was instrumental in preventing the yacht FANTASY ISLE, with five people on board, from capsizing on the stormy Tillamook Bay entrance Bar. To escape the remains of Tropical Storm Celia, the owner/operator of FANTASY ISLE elected to seek shelter in Tillamook Bay, Oregon. Arriving outside the Bay in the late afternoon, the bar entrance was completely covered with breaking seas up to 30-feet in height. With the crew of FANTASY ISLE completely exhausted and seasick, the owner/operator believed he was in a "do-or-die" situation and informed Cost Guard Station Tillamook Bay that he was going to cross the bar. Two Coast Guard rescue boats were immediately dispatched to escort the yacht across the Bar. Arriving on scene two miles off-shore, Petty Officer DIXON placed his MLB behind FANTASY ISLE and took the first breaking wave broadside thereby taking the full force of the breaker before it could reach the yacht. Petty Officer DIXON continued this highly dangerous procedure, taking breaker after breaker, for the next 40 minutes until FANTASY ISLE was safely inside Tillamook Bay. Petty Officer DIXON demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger during this incident. His unselfish action, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal Citation: Langlois, George R.)

DIXON, Richard D., Boatswain's Mate First Class, USCG

Date of Action: 04 July 1980
Date of Award: 02 February 1981

Petty Officer DIXON is cited for extraordinary heroism on the morning of 4 July 1980 while serving as coxswain of MLB 44409 from Coast Guard Station Tillamook Bay, Oregon. During this period he was instrumental in the rescue of four men from a cap-sized small pleasure craft in turbulent surf in the entrance to Tillamook Bay. The boat had dashed around the tip of the north entrance jetty, directly into the path of a 16 to 18 foot breaking sea. The boat capsized. Two of the four occupants were hurled through the windshield before being thrown into the turbulent sea. MLB 44409, on station as a safety boat during an escort operation, was in position one mile behind the capsized boat and was directed to attempt to make the pickup. Petty Officer DIXON skillfully maneuvered the MLB alongside the capsized boat, which resulted in the bow of the MLB being less than 50 to 60 feet from the rocks of the jetty with the stern facing into the breakers. Demonstrating exceptional seamanship, Petty Officer DIXON maintained this position, despite the pounding surf, until all four people were safely aboard the MLB. The slightest mistake in the 12 to 15 foot breakers would have caused the MLB to be tossed unmercifully upon the treacherous rocks with the resultant death to his crew and the victims of the capsized boat. Petty Officer DIXON demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude and daring in spite of imminent personal danger during this rescue mission. His unselfish actions, courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal Citation: Larue, Joe S., Michael, William R. and Smith, Stephen R.)

DIXON, Russell Bernard, Jr., Engineman Third Class, USCG

Date of Action: 25 March 1965
Date of Award: 26 October 1965

For heroism on March 25, 1965 while serving aboard the CG-44324 when he assisted in the rescue of two persons from peril on Bodega Rock in Bodega Bay, California. The CG-44324 was dispatched from Bodega Bay Station and upon arrival on the scene located two men, one injured, stranded on a the rock with 12 foot seas and 30 knot winds buffeting them. The men, who were the only survivors of a capsized outboard boat, had been washed onto the rock and were unable to help themselves due to shock and exposure. DIXON and another Coast Guardsman, dressed in wet suits, immediately jumped from the CG-44324 and swam 30 yards through heavy surf to Bodega Rock with lifejackets for the survivors. With the assistance of a civilian swimmer, DIXON then swam from Bodega Rock back to the CG-44324 towing the injured man on a rubber mattress. The man was then transferred to the USCGC CAPE HEDGE [WPB-95311] and subsequently to shore for medical treatment. DIXON demonstrated initiative, fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger during the entire operation. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal Citation: Hinchcliff, Ronald L.)

D'ORNELLAS, John C., Seaman, USCG

Date of Action: 21 November 1980
Date of Award: 28 August 1981

Seaman D'ORNELLAS is cited for heroism on the afternoon of 21 November 1980 while engaged in the rescue of the operator of a foundering fishing vessel during a serve storm, 10 miles west of the Umpqua River Bar, Oregon. Seaman D'ORNELLAS was a crewman on Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat 44303 dispatched from Coast Guard Station Umpqua River. The MLB arrived on scene after a punishing ride through a breaking bar, 20-foot seas and 50-knot winds. The operator and only occupant of the fishing vessel reported that his auto pilot had failed, his forward hatch cover had been displaced by seas breaking over the bow, and he was taking on water. He further stated that his vessel was listing due to a broken stabilizer pole, and that the listing had worsened due to flooding through the forward hatch. He stated that he was unable to leave the helm to receive a pump due to auto pilot failure. After numerous futile attempts by a Coast Guard helicopter to hoist a Coast Guardsman aboard, Seaman D'ORNELLAS volunteered to leap from the MLB to assist the hapless operator. Seaman D'ORNELLAS went forward to the bow of the MLB and maintained position there, enduring many breaking seas for nearly 30 minutes while the coxswain fought to reach a position form which a successful jump could be made. Following the dangerous leap to the violently pitching and rolling fishing vessel, Seaman D'ORNELLAS reassured the operator and went forward to secure the loose hatch cover. Once again he was engulfed by numerous breaking seas which, on several occasions, swept him completely off his feet and forced him to grasp any available object to remain aboard. The raging sea washed three pumps that were delivered by helicopter overboard before they could be secured. The forward hatch was again blown off and Seaman D'ORNELLAS endured the battering sea to secure it. After the vessel suffered several 90-degree rolls, breaking windows in the wheelhouse and the antenna which severed communication, Seaman D'ORNELLAS persuaded the operator of the fishing vessel to abandon ship with him into the turbulent ocean where they were picked up by the MLB. Seaman D'ORNELLAS demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

FRIDAY, Robert Garlon, Seaman, USCG

Date of Action: 26 May 1968
Date of Award: 15 Aug 1968

For heroism on the morning of 26 May, 1968 while serving as crew member of the CG-44303, engaged in the perilous rescue of one survivor and the subsequent search for three other persons from the capsized pleasure craft YUM-YUM at Umpqua River Entrance, Winchester Bay, Oregon. Despite 35-knot winds and rough seas with 12- to 15-foot breakers which broke up the pleasure craft YUM-YUM. The CG-44303 proceeded to the scene and upon arrival sighted the bow section in the surf and a survivor about 75 feet away repeatedly going under the surface. As the CG-44303 was maneuvered alongside, surf broke over the decks and the victim disappeared under the port side. Seaman FRIDAY leaned far over the side of the boat on the down roll and, although at times completely submerged, helped to hold the survivor until he could be pulled to safety. Learning that three other persons had been aboard the demolished craft, the CG-44303 then commenced a search for the missing men while maneuvering in breaking swells for approximately 30 minutes, grounding once, frequently rolling broadside and repeatedly being engulfed by the surf. Seaman FRIDAY was constantly on the alert for the survivors and skillfully assisted in the recovery of two victims, one of whom he held with his legs while completely submerged by the breakers. Seaman FRIDAY demonstrated initiative, fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: McAdams, Thomas D. and Rector, James H.)

GALVIN, Kevin J., Boatswain's Mate Second Class, USCG

Date of Action: 13 October 1982
Date of Award: 18 December 1982

Petty Officer GALVIN is cited for heroism on the day of 13 October 1982 while serving as coxswain of Coast Guard Motor Life Boat (MLB) 44315 engaged in a rescue operation at the entrance to the Merrimac River, Newburyport, Massachusetts. Upon notification that a small boat had capsized ¼ mile north of the north jetty with 2 people in the water, the MLB was dispatched. Demonstrating exceptional seamanship, Petty Officer GALVIN guided the MLB across the river bar and headed into the 15-foot breaking seas. Arriving on scene Petty Officer GALVIN maneuvered his vessel as close as possible to people in the water, but due to the breaking seas and close proximity to the jetty, he made the decision to use a swimmer. With Petty Officer GALVIN's expert boat handling, he held the vessel into the breaking seas while his crewmen rescued the 2 survivors. Petty Officer GALVIN's seamanship, judgment, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citation: Kallelis, John A.)

GREER, Matthew C., Boatswain's Mate Second Class, USCG

Date of Action: 5 January 1980
Date of Award: 29 April 1980

Petty Officer GREER is cited for extraordinary heroism on 5 January 1980 when he assisted in the rescue of two men from the grounded barge MICHAEL F. in the turbulent surf near Little Egg Inlet, New Jersey. Upon notification of the grounding, Petty Officer GREER departed Coast Guard Station Beach Haven as coxswain of Coast Guard Motor Life Boat CG-44355 and proceeded to the scene despite heavy surf and a driving snowstorm. Arriving on scene, the barge was observed engulfed in 20-foot breakers, lying broadside to the surf, approximately 1-mile offshore. When he was informed that a desperate helicopter evacuation would be attempted, Petty Officer GREER volunteered to attempt a boat rescue. In the face of the mounting surf, Petty Officer GREER maneuvered CG-44355 to the inshore lee of the barge by tacking in and out of the surf to prevent capsizing in the shallow water. As the two crewmen, trapped in a leaking deckhouse of the 300-foot barge, were in danger of drowning, Petty Officer GREER approached the barge as two of his crewmen lashed themselves to the bow rail of CG-44355. Undaunted by the extreme peril facing him, Petty Officer GREER reached the barge on his second attempt. While he held the motor lifeboat to the side of the barge with full throttles, the trapped crewmen broke out of the deckhouse and waded through the waist-deep water. Upon reaching the barge railing, they vaulted the rail and were caught by the Coast Guard personnel tied to the bow of CG-44355. Petty Officer GREER then reversed the engines to clear the barge before the next wave hit. As the survivors were placed in the cabin of the boat, a wave approaching 25-feet lifted three-quarters of the motor lifeboat from the water and slammed it down. Despite this freak wave and the still turbulent seas, Petty Officer GREER cautiously piloted the boat seaward to safety. Petty Officer CREER demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Langstaff, Eric M., Quinn, Daryl G., Truppa, Chris P., and White, Robert M.)

GRIGSBY, Danny Leon, Seaman, USCG

Date of Action: 12 September 1971
Date of Award: 29 December 1971

Seaman GRIGSBY is cited for heroic conduct in the morning of 12 September 1971 while serving as a crewmember aboard CG-44361, engaged in the perilous attempted rescue of seven persons from the waters of Coos Bay Entrance, Charleston, Oregon. The CG-44361 was dispatched from Coos Bay Station to assist in the rescue of survivors from two pleasure craft which had capsized in 10- to 12-foot breaking seas along the Coos Bay South Jetty. As the CG-44361 was maneuvered through the turbulent surf to the scene, Seaman GRIGSBY, dressed in a wet suit, plunged into the 12-foot breaking seas to rescue the victims from the water. After reaching the first victim, and in spite of the severe sea condition, he held the man and successfully returned to the boat. Seaman GRIGSBY continued in his efforts until he had retrieved three victims, the last of whom was swept form his grasp while engulfed in a series of heavy breakers which completely submerged him as he was alongside the CG-44361. Though exhausted, he swam out and recovered the third victim. After returning to the boat, Seaman GRIGSBY later assisted in the recovery of the fourth victim and further assisted other crewmen with the victims while enroute to an awaiting ambulance. Seaman GRIGSBY demonstrated remarkable initiative, fortitude, and great ability in spite of imminent personal danger throughout the entire rescue operation. His unselfish actions and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Rehberg, John C.)

HINCHCLIFF, Ronald Lee, Engineman Third Class, USCG

Date of Action: 25 March 1965
Date of Award: 26 October 1965

For heroism on 25 March 1965 while serving aboard the CG-44324 when he assisted in the rescue of two persons from peril on Bodega Rock in Bodega Bay, California. The CG-44324 was dispatched from Bodega Bay Station and upon arrival on the scene located two men, one injured, stranded on a rock with 12-foot seas and 30-knot winds buffeting them. The men, who were the only survivors of a capsized outboard boat, had been washed onto the rock and were unable to help themselves due to shock and exposure. HINCHCLIFF and another Coast Guardsman, dressed in wet suits, immediately jumped from the CG-44324 and swam 30 yards through heavy surf to Bodega Rock with lifejackets for the survivors. While the injured man was being towed on a rubber mattress by the Coast Guardsman and civilian swimmer, HINCHCLIFF remained on the rock with the remaining survivor despite the hazards of an incoming tide and roughening sea conditions. After a wait of nearly two hours, a Coast Guard helicopter hoisted both men to safety and took them to shore. HINCHCLIFF demonstrated initiative and fortitude in spite of imminent personal danger during the entire operation. His unselfish actions, perseverance, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal Citation: Dixon, Russell Bernard, Jr.)

HOFFMAN, William R., Boatswain's Mate First Class, USCG

Date of Action: 07 September 1963
Date of Award: 30 July 1964

For heroism, on 7 September 1963, while serving as coxswain of the CG-44305, engaged in rescuing a woman who was trapped in the hull of an overturned cabin cruiser near Humboldt Bay, California. HOFFMAN, when advised of the accident, proceeded to the scene about 350 yards offshore in the vicinity of twenty-foot breakers. Two crewmen from the CG-36515 were already in the water attempting to dive under the boat to rescue the victim, who could be heard screaming and pounding on the hull. HOFFMAN immediately dived into the water and, after several attempts, succeeded in getting under the cruiser, entered the cabin and located the woman in an air pocket. As he started out the door with the hysterical woman in his grasp, she pulled free and remained in the cabin. Upon surfacing, HOFFMAN called for a grapnel and line from the CG-36515 and secured it to the capsized vessel. A strain was taken on the line and the cabin cruiser was righted momentarily. HOFFMAN and another crewman quickly freed the unconscious woman before the boat again capsized and placed her aboard the lifeboat. Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation was administered to the victim, while the lifeboat was enroute to shore. She soon regained consciousness and was removed to a hospital. HOFFMAN displayed daring, fortitude, and initiative in spite of ever-present personal danger during the entire operation. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citation: Nelson, Thomas E.)

HOGUE, Andy P., Chief Electrician's Mate, USCG

Date of Action: 12 September 1970
Date of Award: 10 September 1971

(Citation Needed) - SYNOPSIS: Chief Electrician's Mate Andy P. HOGUE, United States Coast Guard, was awarded the Coast Guard Medal for heroism at the risk of life on 12 September 1970. His unselfish actions and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citation: Ross, Robert M.)

HOWELLS, Sean H., Boatswain's Mate Third Class, USCG

Date of Action: 12-13 March 1980
Date of Award: 20 November 1980

Petty Officer HOWELLS is cited for heroism on 12 and 13 March 1980 while engaged in a search and rescue case near the Columbia River Bar. Petty Officer HOWELLS was dispatched from the Coast Guard Station Cape Disappointment as lee coxswain on Coast Guard Motor Life Boat (MLB) 44309 to escort the fishing vessel MISS KIM which was low on fuel and experiencing difficulty in crossing inbound over the Columbia River bar. Enroute to the stricken vessel, MLB 44309 encountered moderate weather conditions with seas 6 to 8 feet and winds 20 to 25 knots. Upon reaching the Bar, a very intense low pressure front began passing through the area. This caused a rapid deterioration of conditions and the seas built to 20 to 25 feet with steady winds of 60 to 65 knots gusting to 80 knots. The sea conditions soon incapacitated the assigned heavy weather coxswain and Petty Officer HOWELLS immediately assumed command. He then requested medical evacuation for the disabled coxswain and provided Station Cape Disappointment with invaluable on-scene information concerning weather conditions and possible solutions to prevent the loss of MISS KIM and the two persons on board. Shortly thereafter a Coast Guard Helicopter arrived and evacuated the coxswain and the two persons onboard MISS KIM. MLB 44309 had been joined by MLB TRIUMPH by this time and both boats proceeded back to the Columbia River bar as nothing more could be done for MISS KIM. Reaching the bar, they found conditions virtually impossible and the two boats were directed to remain offshore rather than chance capsizing on the treacherous bar. Over the next 10 hours Petty Officer HOWELLS maintained control of the MLB despite 12 to15 foot seas, winds of 30 to 40 knots gusting to 60 knots, intermittent squalls with the air temperature of 46 degrees and sea temperature of 48 degrees. Finally, on the morning of 13 March, Petty Officer HOWELLS, totally exhausted, moored his boat and returned his crew of two to the station. Petty Officer HOWELLS demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this case. His courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

KALLELIS, John A., Seaman, USCG

Date of Action: 13 October 1982
Date of Award: 18 December 1982

Seaman KALLELIS is cited for heroism on the day of 13 October 1982 while serving as boat crewman on the Motor Life Boat (MLB) CG-44315 engaged in search and rescue operations at the entrance to the Merrimac River, Newburyport, Massachusetts. Upon notification that a small boat had capsized ¼ mile north of the north jetty with 2 people in the water, the MLB was dispatched. Upon arriving on scene Seaman KALLELIS entered the 15 foot breaking seas and proceeded to swim to the 2 people. Reaching the closer one approximately 30 feet from the MLB, Seaman KALLELIS grabbed hold of him and they were hauled back aboard the MLB. Seaman KALLELIS immediately swam back to, and rescued, the semi-conscious second person. Seaman KALLELIS demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent danger in this rescue. Seaman KALLELIS' unselfish actions, courage, unwavering devotion to duty are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citation: Galvin, Kevin S.)

KELLEY, Todd M., Machinery Technician Third Class, USCG

Date of Action:  14 October 1984
Date of Award:  26 March 1985

(Citation Needed) - SYNOPSIS: Machinery Technician Third Class Todd M. KELLEY, United States Coast Guard, was awarded the Coast Guard Medal for heroism at the risk of life on 14 October 1984. His courage and devotion to duty are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.

KLEUSKENS, Jeffrey A., Machinery Technician Second Class, USCG

Date of Action: 18-19 December 1978
Date of Award: 14 May 1980

Petty Officer KLEUSKENS is cited for heroism on 18 and 19 December 1978 while engaged in providing assistance to the fishing vessel ELIZABETH R, which was taking on water and in danger of sinking approximately 25-miles southeast of Beach Haven Inlet, New Jersey. Upon notification that the vessel was taking on water, Petty Officer KLEUSKENS was dispatched as a crewman of Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat CG-44355. After a four and one-half hour transit through seas in excess of 25-feet with winds exceeding 50-knots, CG-44355 arrived on scene and found ELIZABETH R foundering in heavy seas and unable to control the flooding. Realizing the danger to the crew of the stricken vessel, Petty Officer KLEUSKENS assisted in formulating an effective method for delivering a salvage pump. As the Motor Lifeboat was brought alongside ELIZABETH R a towline was successfully passed. Then a floatable pump was shackled to the towline and successfully passed to ELIZABETH R. The towline was subsequently disconnected due to the sea conditions. CG-44355 remained on scene throughout the night despite deteriorating weather conditions and monitored the pump operations on ELIZABETH R. As the night progressed, CG-44355 began to experience fuel problems with the port engine. At first light CG-44355 was relieved by U.S.C.G.C. POINT BATAN [WPB-82340]. Proceeding towards shore, the coxswains and engineers alternated working hand-operated fuel pumps for the port engine. Finally, after 18-hours underway and over 60-miles of transit through terrible weather conditions, CG-44355 was maneuvered into a lee near Barnegat Inlet and relieved. Petty Officer KLEUSKENS demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger during this mission. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Swank, William R., Vennie, Mark L., and Weaver, Charles C.)

LANGLOIS, George R., Boatswain's Mate Second Class, USCG

Date of Action: 03 July 1980
Date of Award: 02 February 1981

Petty Officer LANGLOIS is cited for heroism on the afternoon of 3 July 1980 while serving as the coxswain of Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat (MLB) 44379. During this period he was instrumental in preventing the yacht FANTASY ISLE, with five people on board, from capsizing on the stormy Tillamook Bay entrance Bar. To escape the remains of Tropical Storm Celia, the owner/operator of FANTASY ISLE elected to seek shelter in Tillamook Bay, Oregon. Arriving outside the Bay in the late afternoon, the bar entrance was completely covered with breaking seas up to 30-feet in height. With the crew of FANTASY ISLE completely exhausted and seasick, the owner/operator believed he was in a "do-or-die" situation and informed Coast Guard Station Tillamook Bay that he was going to cross the bar. Two Coast Guard rescue boats were immediately dispatched to escort the yacht across the Bar. Arriving on scene two miles off-shore, Petty Officer LANGLOIS placed his MLB behind FANTASY ISLE and took the first breaking wave broadside thereby taking the full force of the breaker before it could reach the yacht. Petty Officer LANGLOIS continued this highly dangerous procedure, taking breaker after breaker, for the next 40 minutes until FANTASY ISLE was safely inside Tillamook Bay. Petty Officer LANGLOIS demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger during this incident. His unselfish action, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citation: Dixon, Richard D.)

LANGSTAFF, Eric M., Machinery Technician Third Class, USCG

Date of Action: 05 January 1980
Date of Award: 29 April 1980

Petty Officer LANGSTAFF is cited for extraordinary heroism on 5 January 1980 when he assisted in the rescue of two men from the grounded barge MICHAEL F. in the turbulent surf near Little Egg Inlet, New Jersey. Upon notification of the grounding, Petty Officer LANGSTAFF departed Coast Guard Station Beach Haven as the engineer on board Coast Guard Motor Life Boat CG-44355 and proceeded to the scene despite heavy surf and a driving snowstorm. Arriving on scene, the barge was observed engulfed in 20-foot breakers, lying broadside to the surf, approximately 1-mile offshore. As the coxswain maneuvered the CG-44355 closer to the hapless barge, Petty Officer LANGSTAFF braved the heavy surf and blinding snow while moving hand-over-hand along the rail toward the bow of the motor life boat. Reaching the bow, he tied himself to the rail and waited as the motor life boat was brought along side MICHAEL F. At that moment the two men, who had been trapped in a leaking deckhouse of the 300-foot barge, broke out of the deckhouse and waded through waist deep water to the rail and vaulted over it into Petty Officer LANSGTAFF's arms. He then passed them to other Coast Guard personnel on deck of CG-44355. Petty Officer LANGSTAFF was then recovered from the rail as the motor life boat proceeded seaward to safety. Petty Officer LANGSTAFF demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Greer, Matthew C., Quinn, Daryl G., Truppa, Chris P., and White, Robert M.)

LARUE, Joe S., Seaman, USCG

Date of Action: 04 July 1980
Date of Award: 02 February 1981

Seaman LARUE is cited for heroism on the morning of 4 July 1980 while serving as a crewmember of Motor Life Boat CG-44409 from Coast Guard Station Tillamook Bay, Oregon. During this period he assisted in the rescue of 4 men from a capsized small pleasure craft in turbulent surf in the entrance to Tillamook Bay. The boat had dashed around the tip of the north entrance jetty, directly into the path of a 15 to 18-foot breaking sea. The boat capsized. Two of the four occupants were hurled through the windshield before being thrown into the turbulent sea. CG-44409, on station as a safety boat during an escort operation, was in position one wave behind the capsized boat and was directed to attempt to make the pickup. The coxswain skillfully maneuvered the MLB alongside the capsized boat, which resulted in the bow of the MLB being less than 50 to 75 feet from the rocks of the jetty with the stern facing into the breakers. Stationed in the well deck to pick up survivors, and with seas crashing over the stern threatening to wash him overboard, Seaman LARUE continuously helped to provide maneuvering instructions to the coxswain to enable him to keep the MLB alongside the people in the water and also off the jetty rocks. Three of the victims were brought onboard the MLB; however, the fourth person's leg was caught in the wreckage of the capsized boat. Calmly and professionally, Seaman LARUE and two other MLB crew members freed the victim's leg from the debris just as the distressed vessel sank. With all four survivors safely onboard, the MLB returned to Station Tillamook. Seaman LARUE demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger during this rescue. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal Citation: Dixon, Richard D., Michael, William R. and Smith, Stephen R.)

McADAMS, Thomas David, Senior Chief Boatswain's Mate, USCG

Date of Action: 26 May 1968
Date of Award: 15 August 1968

For heroism on the morning of May 26, 1968 while serving as crew member of the Motor Life Boat CG-44303, engaged in the perilous rescue of one survivor and the subsequent search for three other persons from the capsized pleasure craft YUM-YUM at Umpqua River Entrance, Winchester Bay, Oregon. Despite 35-knot winds and rough seas with 12- to 15-foot breakers, which broke up the pleasure craft YUM-YUM, Chief Petty Officer McADAMS proceeded to the vicinity of the bow section sighted in the surf. When one man was seen repeatedly going under the surface about 75 feet away from the bow section, Chief Petty Officer McADAMS skillfully maneuvered the CG-44303 alongside the victim, who disappeared under the port side, as the surf broke over the decks of the rescue boat. Leaving the wheel, and with the boat being carried broadside into the surf, he then assisted in pulling the survivor to safety. Commencing a search pattern for the other three persons who were missing from the demolished craft, Chief Petty Officer McADAMS maneuvered the CG-44303 in breaking swells for approximately 30 minutes, grounding once, frequently rolling broadside and repeatedly being engulfed by the surf while recovering two other victims. He then proceeded to shore and delivered the victims to medical authorities. The CG-44303 later returned to the scene and searched in vain for the fourth man. Chief Petty Officer McADAMS demonstrated initiative, fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger. His unselfish actions and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Friday, Robert G. and Rector, James H.)

MICHAEL, William R., Machinery Technician Third Class, USCG

Date of Action: 04 July 1980
Date of Award: 02 February 1981

Petty Officer MICHAEL is cited for heroism on the morning of 4 July 1980 while serving as a crewmember of Motor Life Boat CG-44409 from Coast Guard Station Tillamook Bay, Oregon. During this period he assisted in the rescue of 4 men from a capsized small pleasure craft in turbulent surf in the entrance to Tillamook Bay. The boat had dashed around the tip of the north entrance jetty, directly into the path of a 15 to 18-foot breaking sea. The boat capsized. Two of the four occupants were hurled through the windshield before being thrown into the turbulent sea. CG-44409, on station as a safety boat during an escort operation, was in position one wave behind the capsized boat and was directed to attempt to make the pickup. The coxswain skillfully maneuvered the MLB alongside the capsized boat, which resulted in the bow of the MLB being less than 50 to 75 feet from the rocks of the jetty with the stern facing into the breakers. Stationed in the well deck to pick up survivors, and with seas crashing over the stern threatening to wash him overboard, Petty Officer MICHAEL continuously helped to provide maneuvering instructions to the coxswain to enable him to keep the MLB alongside the people in the water and also off the jetty rocks. Three of the victims were brought onboard the MLB; however, the fourth person's leg was caught in the wreckage of the capsized boat. Calmly and professionally, Petty Officer MICHAEL and two other MLB crew members freed the victim's leg from the debris just as the distressed vessel sank. With all four survivors safely onboard, the MLB returned to Station Tillamook. Petty Officer MICHAEL demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger during this rescue. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal Citation: Dixon, Richard D., Larue, Joe S., and Smith, Stephen R.)

MINIKEN, Clinton P., Seaman, USCG (Posthumous Award)

Date of Action: 12 February 1997
Date of Award: 18 February 1997

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Coast Guard Medal (Posthumously) to Seaman Clinton P. Miniken, United States Coast Guard, for extraordinary heroism on 12 February 1997 while serving as a crew member aboard Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat Commanding General-44363, attached to Coast Guard Station Quillayute River. Shortly before 1 o'clock in the morning, responding to a distress call from the sailing vessel GALE RUNNER, Station Quillayute River launched two rescue boats. The operator of GALE RUNNER reported that the vessel was dismasted, taking on water, and in danger of sinking, 2 miles south of the Quillayute River entrance. Seas of up to 25 feet, combined with high winds and driving rain, created a situation of imminent danger for the two people aboard the GALE RUNNER. Soon after crossing the treacherous bar in an attempt to reach the stricken sailboat, the motor lifeboat suddenly rolled over several times in the surf and confused seas. As a result of the repeated roll-overs, Seaman Miniken was forcibly separated from his rescue craft and thrown into the churning ocean. A Coast Guard HH-65 helicopter from Air Station Port Angeles was able to hoist to safety the two people from the GALE RUNNER as it crashed onto rocks. As a crew member of Coast Guard 44363, Seaman Miniken willingly entered extreme ocean storm conditions and sacrificed his life while attempting to save the lives of the two people from the GALE RUNNER. Seaman Miniken demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His courage and devotion to duty are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Bosley, David A., Schlimme, Matthew E., and Wingo, Benjamin F.)

NELSON, Thomas Everett, Engineman Third Class, USCG

Date of Action: 07 September 1963
Date of Award: 30 July 1964

For heroism, on September 7, 1963, while serving as crewman aboard the CG-44305, engaged in rescuing a woman who was trapped in the hull of an overturned cabin cruiser near Humboldt Bay, California. NELSON, aboard the CG-44305, proceeded to the scene about 350 yards offshore in the vicinity of twenty foot breakers. Two crewmen from the CG-36515 were already in the water attempting to dive under the cruiser to rescue the victim, who could be heard screaming and pounding on the hull. NELSON immediately dived into the water and attempted to enter the cabin cruiser. After several unsuccessful attempts, a line was secured to the capsized vessel and a strain was taken on it by the crew of the CG-36515. This temporarily righted the vessel. NELSON and another crewman quickly removed the woman before the vessel again capsized. Aboard the lifeboat, the unconscious woman was administered mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. She soon regained consciousness and was removed to a hospital. NELSON demonstrated fortitude, initiative, and daring in spite of ever-present personal danger during the entire operation. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citation: Hoffman, William R.)

PINER, Billy W., Machinery Technician Third Class, USCG

Date of Action: 28 August 1977
Date of Award: 16 February 1978

Petty Officer PINER is cited for heroism on the afternoon of 28 August 1977 while serving as engineer on board Coast Guard motor lifeboat CG-44350, when he rescued two persons form drowning near Ocean City Inlet, Maryland. Petty Officer PINER, assigned to Coast Guard Station Ocean City, was participating in a routine patrol when a nearby small boat was swamped by the wake of a passing vessel. Arriving on scene, the crew of CG-44350 rescued a two-year old child who was passed over by the man on the swamped boat. Before the man and his wife could be brought safely on board, the small boat capsized throwing them into the water and trapping the woman under the boat. Petty Officer PINER immediately entered the water, dived under the swamped craft, and brought the woman to the surface. Upon reaching the surface, the man stated that he was entangled in the anchor and fishing lines, was unable to free himself, and could not hold on to the capsized craft much longer. Petty Officer PINER quickly placed the woman over the bow of the vessel, dived under the boat, and cut the lines from around the man's legs. Petty officer PINER then helped the two victims to safety on board the Coast Guard vessel. Additionally, Petty Officer PINER retrieved the anchor line of the distressed craft and passed it to the crew of the rescue craft so that the capsized boat could be towed to shore. Petty Officer PINER demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

QUINN, Daryl G., Seaman, USCG

Date of Action: 05 January 1980
Date of Award: 29 April 1980

Seaman QUINN is cited for extraordinary heroism on 5 January 1980 when he assisted in the rescue of two men from the grounded barge MICHAEL F. in the turbulent surf near Little Egg Inlet, New Jersey. Upon notification of the grounding, Seaman QUINN departed Coast Guard Station Beach Haven as a crewman on board Coast Guard Motor Life Boat CG-44355 and proceeded to the scene despite heavy surf and a driving snowstorm. Arriving on scene, the barge was observed engulfed in 20-foot breakers, lying broadside to the surf, approximately 1-mile offshore. As the coxswain maneuvered CG-44355 closer to the hapless barge, Seaman QUINN braved the heavy surf and blinding snow while moving hand-over-hand along the rail toward the bow of the motor life boat. Reaching the bow, he tied himself to the rail and waited as the motor life boat was brought alongside MICHAEL F. At that moment the two men who had been trapped in a leaking deckhouse of the 300-foot barge broke out of the deckhouse and waded through waist-deep water to the rail and vaulted over it into Seaman QUINN's arms. He then passed them to other Coast Guard personnel on the deck of CG-44355. Seaman QUINN was then recovered from the rail as the motor life boat proceeded seaward to safety. Seaman QUINN demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Greer, Matthew C., Langstaff, Eric M., Truppa, Chris P., and White, Robert M.)

RECTOR, James Harold, Engineman First Class, USCG

Date of Action: 26 May 1968
Date of Award: 15 August 1968

For heroism on the morning of May 26, 1968 while serving as crew member of the [motor lifeboat] CG-44303, engaged in the perilous rescue of one survivor and the subsequent search for three other persons from the capsized pleasure craft YUM-YUM at Umpqua River Entrance, Winchester Bay, Oregon. Despite 35-knot winds and rough seas with 12- to 15-foot breakers which broke up the pleasure craft YUM-YUM. The CG-44303 proceeded to the scene and upon arrival sighted the bow section in the surf and a survivor about 75 feet away repeatedly going under the surface. As the CG-44303 was maneuvered alongside, surf broke over the decks and the victim disappeared under the port side. Seaman Petty Officer RECTOR leaned far over the side of the boat on the down roll and, although at times completely submerged, seized and held the survivor until he could be pulled to safety. Learning that three other persons had been aboard the demolished craft, the CG-44303 then commenced a search for the missing men while maneuvering in breaking swells for approximately 30 minutes, grounding once, frequently rolling broadside and repeatedly being engulfed by the surf. Petty Officer RECTOR was constantly on the alert for the survivors and skillfully assisted in the recovery of two victims. Petty Officer RECTOR demonstrated initiative, fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Friday, Robert G. and McAdams, Thomas D.)

REHBERG, John Charles, Boatswain's Mate Second Class, USGC

Date of Action: 12 September 1971
Date of Award: 29 December 1971

Petty Officer REHBERG is cited for heroic conduct on the morning of 12 September 1971 while serving as Officer-in-Charge of the CG-44361, engaged in the perilous attempted rescue of seven persons from the waters of Coos Bay Entrance, Charleston, Oregon. When dispatched to assist in the rescue of survivors from two pleasure craft which had capsized in 10- to12-foot breaking seas along the Coos Bay South Jetty, Petty Officer REHBERG quickly proceeded to the scene. He skillfully maneuvered through the turbulent surf to the vicinity of the seven victims and, with outstanding seamanship, cleared the dangerous jetty rocks and placed a swimmer in the water to assist three of the victims alongside the boat for recovery. Realizing that his swimmer was too exhausted to retrieve a fourth victim, Petty Officer REHBERT again maneuvered the CG-44361 to a position in the heavy pounding seas to effect the rescue. He then proceeded to Coos Bay Station where the four victims were transferred to an ambulance. Petty Officer REHBERG demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in the spite of imminent personal danger during the entire rescue operation. His unselfish actions and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United Sates Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Grigsby, Danny L.)

ROSS, Robert Mark, Seaman, USCG

Date of Action: 12 August 1970
Date of Award: 27 January 1971

Seaman ROSS is cited for heroic conduct on the afternoon of 12 August 1970 while serving as crew number of CG-44234 engaged in the rescue of the operator of the fishing vessel ALICE which sank in 25 fathoms of water west of Table Bluff, California. Upon arrival on scene, Seaman ROSS boarded the vessel with a portable pump to begin dewatering operations. Six minutes later, before he could get the pump in operation, the vessel began to sink stern first. Seaman ROSS swam away from the sinking ship, however, he noticed that the operator was caught in the rigging and was going down with the vessel. With complete disregard for his own safety, Seaman ROSS immediately returned to the sinking vessel to assist him. By his quick and heroic efforts he was able to free the man who was trapped below the water in the rigging. Seaman ROSS' unselfish actions, remarkable courage, and unwavering devotion to duty, in spite of imminent personal danger, reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United State Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citation: Hogue, Andy P.)

SCHLIMME, Matthew E., Machinery Technician Third Class, USCG (Posthumous Award)

Date of Action: 12 February 1997
Date of Award: 18 February 1997

Petty Officer SCHLIMME is cited for extraordinary heroism on 12 February 1997 while serving as a crew member aboard Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat CG-44363, attached to Coast Guard Station Quillayute River. Shortly before 1 o'clock in the morning, responding to a distress call from the sailing vessel GALE RUNNER, Station Quillayute River launched two rescue boats. The operator of GALE RUNNER reported that the vessel was dismasted, taking on water, and in danger of sinking 2 miles south of the Quillayute River entrance. Seas of up to 25 feet, combined with high winds and driving rain, created a situation of imminent danger for the two people aboard the GALE RUNNER. Soon after crossing the treacherous bar in an attempt to reach the stricken sailboat, the motor lifeboat suddenly rolled over several times in the surf and confused seas. As a result of the repeated roll-overs, Petty Officer SCHLIMME was forcibly separated from his rescue craft and thrown into the churning ocean. A Coast Guard HH-65 helicopter from Air Station Port Angeles was able to hoist to safety the two people from the GALE RUNNER as it crashed onto rocks. As a crew member of Coast Guard CG-44363, Petty Officer SCHLIMME willingly entered extreme ocean storm conditions and sacrificed his life while attempting to save the lives of the two people from the GALE RUNNER. Petty Officer SCHLIMME demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His courage and devotion to duty are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Bosley, David A., Miniken, Clinton P. and Wingo, Benjamin F.)

SEXTON, Charles W., Machinery Technician First Class, USCG (Posthumous Award)

Date of Action: 11 January 1991
Date of Award: 09 April 1991

Petty Officer SEXTON is cited for extraordinary heroism on 11 January 1991 while serving as emergency medical technician aboard Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat CG-44381. The boat crew was responding to a distress call from F/V SEA KING, a 75-foot stern trawler with four persons on board, which was taking on water and in danger of sinking, four nautical miles northwest of the Columbia River Bar, with her decks awash and after compartment and engine room steadily filling up with water. From the relative safety the motor lifeboat, Petty Officer SEXTON unselfishly volunteered to go aboard the foundering fishing vessel to treat the injuries of a SEA KING crew member who had fallen to the deck boat during a failed helicopter hoist. He skillfully diagnosed the victim's injuries, informed the flight surgeon of the extent of the injuries and provided first aid treatment. Once the victim was stabilized, Petty Officer SEXTON turned his attention to assisting with the dewatering of the vessel. The SEA KING required several dewatering pumps to remove the initial quantity of sea water from the engine room. Then, hourly dewatering of the vessel was necessary to maintain proper trim aboard the vessel. After more than 6 hours of this exhausting routine, with the worst of the treacherous bar crossing behind them, the SEA KING suddenly, without warning, rolled over, throwing victims into the churning seas and trapping Petty Officer SEXTON in the enclosed pilot house. He went down with vessel, sacrificing his life while attempting to save the lives of the SEA KING's crew members. Petty Officer SEXTON demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent danger in this rescue. His courage and devotion to duty are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.

SKARVOLD, Gary Lee, Engineman Second Class, USCG

Date of Action: 02 December 1967
Date of Award: 28 March 1968

For heroism on the morning of December 2, 1967 while serving at the Coast Guard Station, Neah Bay, Washington, when he assisted in the perilous rescue of a fellow Coastguardsman from the treacherous waters of Neah Bay and assisted in averting the destruction of the CG-44364, which had been set adrift by violent waves. Petty Officer SKARVOLD, advised that a fellow Coastguardsman had been washed off the pier by a large wave, donned a wet suit and accompanied by another member of the crew, entered the frigid water to assist. Despite hazards of almost total darkness, 15 to 20-foot waves, and floating debris, the rescuers reached the distressed man and attempted to pull him to shore. Thwarted in this plan by the waves and treacherous currents, the rescuers remained with the victim until a fishing boat picked them up. Later that morning when the CG-44364 was set adrift in the bay, Petty Officer SKARVOLD immediately volunteered to be lowered from a helicopter hovering at an altitude of 40 feet to the surging deck of the CG 44364 to assist in taking the CG-44364 in tow for mooring in sheltered waters. Petty Officer SKARVOLD demonstrated initiative, fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.

SMITH, Stephen R., Boatswains Mate Third Class, USCG

Date of Action: 04 July 1980
Date of Award: 02 February 1981

Petty Officer SMITH is cited for heroism on the morning of 4 July 1980 while serving as a crewmember of Motor Life Boat CG-44409 from Coast Guard Station Tillamook Bay, Oregon. During this period he assisted in the rescue of 4 men from a capsized small pleasure craft in turbulent surf in the entrance to Tillamook Bay. The boat had dashed around the tip of the north entrance jetty, directly into the path of a 15 to 18-foot breaking sea. The boat capsized. Two of the four occupants were hurled through the windshield before being thrown into the turbulent sea. CG-44409, on station as a safety boat during an escort operation, was in position one wave behind the capsized boat and was directed to attempt to make the pickup. The coxswain skillfully maneuvered the MLB alongside the capsized boat, which resulted in the bow of the MLB being less than 50 to 75 feet from the rocks of the jetty with the stern facing into the breakers. Stationed in the well deck to pick up survivors, and with seas crashing over the stern threatening to wash him overboard, Petty Officer SMITH continuously helped to provide maneuvering instructions to the coxswain to enable him to keep the MLB alongside the people in the water and also off the jetty rocks. Three of the victims were brought onboard the MLB; however, the fourth person's leg was caught in the wreckage of the capsized boat. Calmly and professionally, Petty Officer SMITH and two other MLB crew members freed the victim's leg from the debris just as the distressed vessel sank. With all four survivors safely onboard, the MLB returned to Station Tillamook. Petty Officer SMITH demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger during this rescue. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal Citation: Dixon, Richard D., Larue, Joe S., and Michael, William R.)

STEVENS, Elmer Allen, Chief Boatswain's Mate, USCG

Date of Action: 23 June 1964
Date of Award: 20 May 1965

For heroism, on June 23, 1964, while serving as coxswain of CG-44303, when he rescued four persons and a shipmate from drowning on the Umpqua River bar, Winchester Bay, Oregon. STEVENS and his crew, on bar patrol at the time, safely escorted 25 fishing skiffs across the hazardous bar. However, five skiffs remained trapped outside the bar. The accident occurred when one of these boats was struck by a 30 foot breaker and capsized, throwing the occupants into the surf. Simultaneously, the CG-44303 was caught by a huge breaker and rolled 170 degrees, throwing a crew member overboard. As soon as the CG-44303 righted herself, STEVENS skillfully maneuvered the boat to recover his shipmate and the four persons in the water. The survivors of the skiff were then transported to shore for medical care. Thereafter, STEVENS returned across the Umpqua bar and, after taking the occupants aboard the CG-44303, he towed two more skiffs to shore. By his perseverance, a total of 85 persons were assisted to safety, without serious casualty or injury. STEVENS demonstrated initiative, fortitude, and great ability in spite of ever present personal danger during the entire rescue mission. His unselfish actions and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

SWANK, William R., Boatswains Mate Second Class, USCG

Date of Action: 18-19 December 1978
Date of Award: 14 May 1980

Petty Officer SWANK is cited for heroism on 18 and 19 December 1978 while engaged in providing assistance to the fishing vessel ELIZABETH R, which was taking on water and in danger of sinking approximately 25-miles southeast of Beach Haven Inlet, New Jersey. Upon notification that the vessel was taking on water, Petty Officer SWANK was dispatched as a crewman of Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat CG-44355. After a four and one-half hour transit through seas in excess of 25-feet with winds exceeding 50-knots, CG-44355 arrived on scene and found ELIZABETH R foundering in heavy seas and unable to control the flooding. Realizing the danger to the crew of the stricken vessel, Petty Officer SWANK assisted in formulating an effective method for delivering a salvage pump. As the Motor Lifeboat was brought alongside ELIZABETH R a towline was successfully passed. Then a floatable pump was shackled to the towline and successfully passed to ELIZABETH R. The towline was subsequently disconnected due to the sea conditions. CG-44355 remained on scene throughout the night despite deteriorating weather conditions and monitored the pump operations on ELIZABETH R. As the night progressed, CG-44355 began to experience fuel problems with the port engine. At first light CG-44355 was relieved by U.S.C.G.C. POINT BATAN [WPB-82340]. Proceeding towards shore, the coxswains and engineers alternated working hand-operated fuel pumps for the port engine. Finally, after 18-hours underway and over 60-miles of transit through terrible weather conditions, CG-44355 was maneuvered into a lee near Barnegat Inlet and relieved. Petty Officer SWANK demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger during this mission. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Kleuskens, Jeffrey A., Vennie, Mark L., and Weaver, Charles C.)

TRUPPA, Christopher P., Boatswain's Mate Second Class, USCG

Date of Action: 05 January 1980
Date of Award: 29 April 1980

(Citation Needed) - SYNOPSIS: Boatswain's Mate Second Class Christopher P. TRUPPA, United States Coast Guard, was awarded the Coast Guard Medal for extraordinary heroism on 5 January 1980 when he assisted in the rescue of two men from the grounded barge MICHEL F in the turbulent surf near Little Egg Inlet, New Jersey. Upon notification of the grounding, Petty Officer TRUPPA departed Coast Guard Station New Haven on board Coast Guard Motor Life Boat CG-44355 and proceeded to the scene despite heavy surf and a driving snowstorm. Arriving on scene, the barge was observed engulfed in 20-foot breakers, lying broadside to the surf, approximately 1-mile offshore. As the coxswain maneuvered the CG-44355 closer to the hapless barge, Petty Officer TRUPPA braved the heavy surf and blinding snow while moving hand-over-hand along the rail toward the bow of the motor life boat. to assist in the rescue. Petty Officer TRUPPA demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Greer, Matthew C., Langstaff, Eric M., Quinn, Daryl G. and White, Robert M.)

UNDERWOOD, Michael L., Boatswain's Mate Third Class, USCG

Date of Action: 19 January 1996
Date of Award: 09 February 1996

Petty Officer UNDERWOOD is cited for extraordinary heroism on the afternoon of 19 January 1996 while serving as Duty Coxswain of motor lifeboat 44352 during the rescue of six crewmen from the tug SCANDIA, which had caught fire off Point Judith, Rhode Island during a fierce winter storm. The motor lifeboat dispatched from Station Point Judith and arrived on scene to find the six crewmen had retreated to the bow to escape the fire, which had engulfed the vessel. Petty Officer UNDERWOOD called upon all his skills as a coxswain to hold his position in 20-30 foot seas, winds of more than 50 knots, and zero visibility. After rescuing one crewman, an explosion rocked the vessel, blowing out the pilothouse windows and sending the remaining five crewmen into the 32-degree water. Petty Officer UNDERWOOD deployed the rescue swimmer and expertly maneuvered to retrieve the survivors. After returning to Station Point Judith to get the hypothermic rescue swimmer to medical care, he volunteered to get underway again with two of the tug's crewmen in a bold attempt to anchor the barge carrying four million gallons of oil. In these horrific conditions, Petty Officer UNDERWOOD was able to get the two crewmen onto the barge in a last-ditch effort to set its emergency anchor. When they did not succeed, he was able to retrieve one crewman before being forced by darkness and worsening conditions to stand off. The remaining crewman was subsequently rescued by a Coast Guard helicopter. Petty Officer UNDERWOOD demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His courage and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citation: Cravey, Adam D.)

VENNIE, Mark L., Seaman Apprentice, USCG

Date of Action: 18-19 December 1978
Date of Award: 14 May 1980

Seaman Apprentice VENNIE is cited for heroism on 18 and 19 December 1978 while engaged in providing assistance to the fishing vessel ELIZABETH R, which was taking on water and in danger of sinking approximately 25-miles southeast of Beach Haven Inlet, New Jersey. Upon notification that the vessel was taking on water, Seaman Apprentice VENNIE was dispatched as engineer of Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat CG-44355. After a four and one-half hour transit through seas in excess of 25-feet with winds exceeding 50-knots, CG-44355 arrived on scene and found ELIZABETH R foundering in heavy seas and unable to control the flooding. Realizing the danger to the crew of the stricken vessel, Seaman Apprentice VENNIE assisted in formulating an effective method for delivering a salvage pump. As the Motor Lifeboat was brought alongside ELIZABETH R a towline was successfully passed. Then a floatable pump was shackled to the towline and successfully passed to ELIZABETH R. The towline was subsequently disconnected due to the sea conditions. CG-44355 remained on scene throughout the night despite deteriorating weather conditions and monitored the pump operations on ELIZABETH R. As the night progressed, CG-44355 began to experience fuel problems with the port engine. At first light CG-44355 was relieved by USCGC POINT BATAN [WPB-82340]. Proceeding towards shore, the coxswains and engineers alternated working hand-operated fuel pumps for the port engine. Finally, after 18-hours underway and over 60-miles of transit through terrible weather conditions, CG-44355 was maneuvered into a lee near Barnegat Inlet and relieved. Seaman Apprentice VENNIE demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger during this mission. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Kleuskens, Jeffrey A., Swank, William R. and Weaver, Charles C.)

WEAVER, Charles C., III, Boatswain's Mate Third Class, USCG

Date of Action: 18-19 December 1978
Date of Award: 14 May 1980

Petty Officer WEAVER is cited for heroism on 18 and 19 December 1978 while engaged in providing assistance to the fishing vessel ELIZABETH R, which was taking on water and in danger of sinking approximately 25-miles southeast of Beach Haven Inlet, New Jersey. Upon notification that the vessel was taking on water, Petty Officer WEAVER was dispatched as coxswain/crewman of Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat CG-44355. After a four and one-half hour transit through seas in excess of 25-feet with winds exceeding 50-knots, CG-44355 arrived on scene and found ELIZABETH R foundering in heavy seas and unable to control the flooding. Realizing the danger to the crew of the stricken vessel, Petty Officer WEAVER assisted in formulating an effective method for delivering a salvage pump. As the Motor Lifeboat was brought alongside ELIZABETH R a towline was successfully passed. Then a floatable pump was shackled to the towline and successfully passed to ELIZABETH R. The towline was subsequently disconnected due to the sea conditions. CG-44355 remained on scene throughout the night despite deteriorating weather conditions and monitored the pump operations on ELIZABETH R. As the night progressed, CG-44355 began to experience fuel problems with the port engine. At first light CG-44355 was relieved by USCGC POINT BATAN [WPB-82340]. Proceeding towards shore, the coxswains and engineers alternated working hand-operated fuel pumps for the port engine. Finally, after 18-hours underway and over 60-miles of transit through terrible weather conditions, CG-44355 was maneuvered into a lee near Barnegat Inlet and relieved. Petty Officer Weaver demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger during this mission. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Kleuskens, Jeffrey A., Swank, William R. and Vennie, Mark L.)

WHITE, Richard C., Machinery Technician Second Class, USCG

Date of Action: 7 June 1981
Date of Award: 13 May 1982

Petty Officer WHITE is cited for heroism on the afternoon of 7 June 1981 while serving as engineer aboard Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat (MLB) 44400 out of Coast Guard Station Yaquina Bay, Newport, Oregon. Upon notification that a fishing vessel had capsized, the MLB proceeded through 12 to 14 foot seas and 45 knot winds to the area. Locating the overturned vessel, the MLB could not approach close enough to determine if anyone was trapped inside the hull. The only alternative was to have someone from the MLB hoisted by an on scene Coast Guard helicopter and lowered to the vessel. Petty Officer White volunteered and quickly donned the hoist sling just as the MLB fell off a wave into the trough. For the next several minutes he hung perilously on the helicopter's hoist cable. Three times he banged into the overturned hull before finally grasping the propeller shaft and clinging to the rolling hull. Using his folding knife, Petty Officer WHITE began tapping on the hull and holding on as best he could since he had no tending line for a safety device. Eventually his taps were answered. Someone was trapped inside the vessel. His mission completed, Petty Officer WHITE was again hoisted aboard the helicopter. His courageous actions set in motion the rescue of two men from the overturned vessel. Petty Officer White demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this mission. His unselfish actions, courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

WHITE, Robert M., Seaman Apprentice, USCG

Date of Action: 05 January 1980
Date of Award: 29 April 1980

Seaman Apprentice WHITE is cited for extraordinary heroism on 5 January 1980 when he assisted in the rescue of two men from the grounded barge MICHAEL F in the turbulent surf near Little Egg Inlet, New Jersey. Upon notification of the grounding, Seaman Apprentice WHITE departed Coast Guard Station Beach Haven a crewman on board Coast Guard Motor Life Boat CG-44355 and proceeded to the scene despite heavy surf and a driving snowstorm. Arriving on scene, the barge was observed engulfed in 20-foot breakers, lying broadside to the surf, approximately 1-mile offshore. As the coxswain maneuvered CG-44355 closer to the hapless barge, Seaman Apprentice WHITE moved to the forward deck of the boat to assist in the rescue attempt. Despite the mountainous waves and blinding snow, he assisted two crewmen to the bow where they were lashed to the rail. As CG-44355 came alongside the barge, the two survivors, who were trapped in a leaking deckhouse of the 300-foot barge, broke out of the deckhouse and waded through waist deep water to the rail and vaulted over it into the arms of the two Coast Guardsmen lashed to the rails of CG-44355. Seaman Apprentice WHITE demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His unselfish actions, courage, and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Greer, Matthew C., Langstaff, Eric M., Quinn, Daryl G. and Truppa, Chris P.)

WINGO, Benjamin F., Seaman Apprentice, USCG

Date of Action: 12 February 1997
Date of Award: 18 February 1997

Seaman Apprentice WINGO is cited for extraordinary heroism on 12 February 1997 while serving as a crew member aboard Coast Guard Motor Lifeboat 44363, attached to Coast Guard Station Quillayute River. Shortly before 1 o'clock in the morning, responding to a distress call from the sailing vessel GALE RUNNER, Station Quillayute River launched two rescue boats. The operator of GALE RUNNER reported that the vessel was dismasted, taking on water, and in danger of sinking, 2 miles south of the Quillayute River entrance. Seas of up to 25 feet, combined with high winds and driving rain, created a situation of imminent danger for the two people aboard the GALE RUNNER. Soon after crossing the treacherous bar in an attempt to reach the stricken sailboat, the motor lifeboat suddenly rolled over several times in the surf and confused seas. As a result of the repeated roll-overs, three crew members were forcibly separated from his rescue craft and thrown into the churning ocean. Seaman Apprentice WINGO managed to remain on his rescue craft and released his safety line as his stricken lifeboat itself crashed repeatedly on the rocks. Despite his harrowing ordeal, he was able to fire flares to signal his boat's and his crewmates' distress. A Coast Guard HH-65 helicopter from Air Station Port Angeles was able to hoist to safety the two people from the GALE RUNNER as it crashed on the rocks. As a crewmember of Coast Guard 44363, Seaman Apprentice WINGO willingly entered extreme ocean storm conditions and risked his own life while attempting to save the lives of the two people from the GALE RUNNER. Seaman Apprentice WINGO demonstrated remarkable initiative, exceptional fortitude, and daring in spite of imminent personal danger in this rescue. His courage and devotion to duty are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.

(Related Coast Guard Medal citations: Bosley, David A., Miniken, Clinton P. and Schlimme, Matthew E.)
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