USS Cole Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals
The following individuals received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for their actions in the aftermath of the 12 October 2000 terrorist attack on USS Cole.
- ADAMS, ANDRE L., Sonar Technician Second Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- ALLEN, KEITH I., Gas Turbine System Technician Third Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- ALVAREZ, JANETTA G., Sonar Technician First Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- BAIR, NATHAN F., Fire Controlman Second Class, USN
- BOST, RACHELLE M., Chief Information Systems Technician (Surface Warfare), USN
- BUCKLEY III, JOHN G., Electrician’s Mate Third Class, USN
- CLARK, BRUCE W., Information Systems Technician First Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- CLEARY, CHAD G., Gas Turbine Technician Fireman, USN
- COPELAND, DAVID D., Information Systems Technician Second Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- EVERETTE, SCOTT A., Fire Controlman Second Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- GAINES, DENNIS M., Lieutenant (Junior Grade), USNR
- GOMEZ, SARAH B., Information Systems Technician Second Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- HADDOCK, ALEXIS, Fire Controlman Second Class, USN
- HAYWOOD, ANTHONY W., Fireman Apprentice, USN
- HODGES, TODD E., Mess Management Specialist Third Class, USN
- HOOD, ESTHER A., Personnelman Third Class, USN
- HYDE, KEVIN L., Gas Turbine Technician Second Class, USN
- INGRAM, KELLI J., Boatswain’s Mate First Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- JACKSON, RODNEY R., Storekeeper First Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- JACOBSON, CRAIG D., Fire Controlman Second Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- JANNARONE, JESSICA E., Sonar Technician Second Class, USN
- JONES, DAREN L., Operations Specialist First Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- KEVWITCH, GARRY S., Engineman Second Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- LARSON, NORMAN W., Chief Gunners Mate (Surface Warfare), USN
- LONG, JENNIFER E., Gunner’s Mate Second Class, USN
- MCNEAL, TYRONE P., Gunner’s Mate Second Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- MCPETERS, CHARLES A., Sonar Technician First Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- MITCHELL, BRYAN, Gas Turbine Technician Fireman, USN
- MOSHER, JASON J., Fire Controlman Third Class, USN
- NEWTON, ELROY L., Ensign, USN
- PAYNE, ADRIAN L., Mess Management Specialist First Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- PEARCE, SUZAN D., Chief Personnelman (Surface Warfare), USN
- SANDERS, DAVID M., Fire Controlman Third Class, USN
- SCHROETER, KENNETH R., Mess Management Specialist Second Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- SMITH, JOHNNIE, Operations Specialist Third Class, USN
- TYSON, STAFFORD H., Gunner’s Mate First Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- VOYER, ANDREW P., Information Systems Technician Second Class, USN
- WALKER, VERNON E., Engineman Second Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- WEBB, MICHAEL L., Damage Controlman First Class (Surface Warfare), USN
- WOODFIN, DENISE D., Lieutenant (Supply Corps), USN
- WRIGHT, JEREMIAH J., Fireman Apprentice, USN
- ZIDE, JOSPEH P., Fire Controlman Second Class (Surface Warfare), USN
Sonar Technician Second Class (Surface Warfare) Andre L. Adams
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Adams demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He responded immediately by quickly disconnecting the fueling hoses attached to the ship, which were pumping large volumes of fuel into the ship through broken lines. He then helped pull a wounded shipmate onboard from the oily waters of Aden Harbor. Petty Officer Adams’ perseverance, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Gas Turbine System Technician Third Class (Surface Warfare) Keith I. Allen
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Allen demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He immediately provided assistance to injured personnel as a stretcher-bearer. Additionally, he was highly instrumental in all damage control efforts to control flooding in the auxiliary engineering spaces, which ultimately helped save the ship. Petty Officer Allen’s perseverance, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sonar Technician First Class (Surface Warfare) Janetta G. Alvarez
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Alvarez demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. She assisted in the damage control effort as well as aiding her wounded shipmates. She was instrumental in investigating dark and smoke-filled spaces to determine the location of trapped personnel and assess the extent of damage to the ship, which greatly contributed to saving the ship. Petty Officer Alvarez’ steadfast determination, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon her and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fire Controlman Second Class Nathan F. Bair
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Bair demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He was instrumental in the rescue of a severely wounded Sailor from Aden Harbor. His quick thinking in suggesting the utilization of a mooring line to lift his wounded shipmate to safety, where life-saving medical treatment could be rendered was exceptional. Petty Officer Bair’s steadfast determination, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Chief Information Systems Technician (Surface Warfare) Rachelle M. Bost
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Chief Petty Officer Bost demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. She worked tirelessly for over five hours in the smoke-filled radio Central attempting to establish radio communications with any United States military unit. Thanks to her efforts, she was instrumental in establishing and maintaining secure voice and SIPRNET connectivity with higher authority. Chief Petty Officer Bost’s steadfast determination, personal initiative, and loyal devotion to duty reflected credit upon her and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Electrician’s Mate Third Class John G. Buckley III
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Buckley demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He was instrumental in helping recover injured shipmates from Aden Harbor. He attended to one badly burned shipmate and remained with her until she received medical treatment. Additionally, he assisted in the rigging of casualty power in order to restore electricity to damage control equipment. Petty Officer Buckley’s steadfast determination, personal initiative, and loyal devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Information Systems Technician First Class (Surface Warfare) Bruce W. Clark
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Clark demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He worked tirelessly for over five hours in the smoke-filled radio central. He steadfastly attempted to establish a radio circuit with any other United States military unit. Later, he was instrumental in identifying Yemeni security forces possibly eavesdropping on USS Cole communications. Petty Officer Clark’s superb leadership, personal initiative, and loyal devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Gas Turbine Technician Fireman Chad G. Cleary
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Fireman Cleary demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He provided assistance as a stretcher-bearer to wounded personnel by moving them to safer locations for medical assistance. He then assisted in the system isolation of auxiliary machinery rooms that were rapidly flooding. Fireman Cleary’s steadfast determination, personal initiative, and loyal devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Information Systems Technician Second Class (Surface Warfare) David D. Copeland
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Copeland demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He was instrumental in establishing emergency communications by working tirelessly for over two hours in the darkened, smoke-filled radio central. Later, he volunteered to escort the wounded to a hospital ashore. While at the hospital, he selflessly donated his own blood for them. Petty Officer Copeland’s steadfast determination, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fire Controlman Second Class (Surface Warfare) Scott A. Everette
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Everette demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He was instrumental in the coordination and restoration of both interior and exterior communications throughout the ship, which provided a complete and accurate damage control picture used to save the ship. He also assisted in the damage control efforts, which helped restore essential firemain for dewatering. Petty Officer Everette’s courage, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Dennis M. Gaines
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Lieutenant (j.g.) Gaines demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He was directly involved in damage control efforts which prevented the flooding of Main Engine Room Number Two, the largest watertight compartment onboard. He initiated and maintained laundry service utilizing nearby ships. Lieutenant (j.g.) Gaines’ superb leadership, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Information Systems Technician Second Class (Surface Warfare) Sarah B. Gomez
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Gomez demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. She worked tirelessly for over five hours in the darkened, smoke-filled radio central in an attempt to establish radio communications with any other United States military unit. She was instrumental in establishing and maintaining connectivity with higher authority. Petty Officer Gomez’ steadfast determination, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon her and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fire Controlman Second Class Alexis Haddock
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Haddock demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He was instrumental in the coordination of stretcher-bearer efforts, which helped firefighting teams move unobstructed. He assisted in damage control efforts by stopping flooding from the AN/SPY-1D damaged cooling skid unit in Auxiliary Machinery Room Number One. He also was a lifesaving blood donor. Petty Officer Haddock’s determination, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fireman Apprentice Anthony W. Haywood
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Fireman Haywood demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. Entering the damaged Chief’s Mess, he helped free a Sailor from the wreckage. He then helped rig casualty power cables throughout the ship in order to restore power to damage control equipment, lighting, ventilation, and emergency radio communications. Fireman Haywood’s perseverance, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Mess Management Specialist Third Class Todd E. Hodges
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Hodges performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. He assisted with the daily coordination, delivery, and serving of over 1,200 meals per day despite the loss of the ship’s mess facilities. He also stood numerous damage control watches. Petty Officer Hodges’ perseverance, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personnelman Third Class Esther A. Hood
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Hood demonstrated total disregard for personal safety. While serving as a food service attendant (FSA) in the wardroom galley, she noticed that another FSA had been knocked unconscious by the blast. She immediately tried to revive him, despite the galley rapidly filling with smoke. Initially failing to revive the Sailor, she dragged him to a smoke-free area, where he regained consciousness. Petty Officer Hood’s quick actions, personal initiative, and loyal devotion to duty reflected credit upon her and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Gas Turbine Technician Second Class Kevin L. Hyde
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Hyde demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He brilliantly aligned emergency fuel to number three gas turbine generator, which is the sole source of electricity for the ship. With the loss of his leading petty officer and the main propulsion assistant, he stepped into the role as the leader in the division. Petty Officer Hyde’s superb leadership, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Boatswain’s Mate First Class (Surface Warfare) Kelli J. Ingram
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Ingram demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. Although injured, she immediately helped set up a first aid station in the ship’s laundry. Upon evacuation of the wounded, she reported to Repair Locker Two and assisted in the tracking and controlling of damage in the forward section of the ship. She was an inspiration to those around her. Petty Officer Ingram’s perseverance, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon her and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Storekeeper First Class (Surface Warfare) Rodney R. Jackson
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Jackson performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. He acted as the coordinator for all material requirements, thus greatly enhancing the damage control and recovery efforts. Making up for personnel losses in his department, he became the expert in all areas of supply. Petty Officer Jackson’s untiring efforts, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fire Controlman Second Class (Surface Warfare) Craig D. Jacobson
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Jacobson demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He was instrumental in the coordination of stretcher-bearers, by serving as the ship-to-shore liaison for the evacuation of personnel to ambulances. He compiled lists to track the names of the injured and their final destinations. Later, he selflessly stood guard on the beach. Petty Officer Jacobson’s quick actions, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sonar Technician Second Class Jessica E. Jannarone
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Jannarone demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. In the vicinity of the combat information center, she encountered two wounded shipmates in need of medical treatment. She led them through damaged areas of the ship to the aft battle dressing station. She then assisted repair locker members in responding to damage. Petty Officer Jannarone’s quick actions, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon her and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Operations Specialist First Class (Surface Warfare) Daren L. Jones
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Jones demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He ran emergency internal communications in order to maintain vital communications with all areas of the ship and exhausted all means to establish communications with other commands. He also played an instrumental role in dewatering critical shipboard spaces and preventing progressive flooding. Petty Officer Jones’ perseverance, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Engineman Second Class (Surface Warfare) Garry S. Kevwitch
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Kevwitch performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. He was highly instrumental in damage control efforts in controlling the flooding of both auxiliary machinery rooms. He helped his division restore number four air conditioning unit to full operational capability and later stood many shoring watches in the engineering spaces in extreme heat. Petty Officer Kevwitch’s perseverance, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Chief Gunners Mate (Surface Warfare) Norman W. Larson
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Chief Petty Officer Larson performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. He was instrumental in the coordination and establishment of a security team to prevent follow-on attacks. Later, he played a vital role in securing and maintaining temperatures within the vertical launching system. Chief Petty Officer Larson’s superb expertise, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Gunner’s Mate Second Class Jennifer E. Long
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Long demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. She was instrumental in the coordination of an initial security force by arming herself and others and manning an aft .50 caliber gun to protect against possible follow-on attacks. She then assisted in rigging a tarp to provide shade for wounded crewmembers exposed to extreme heat. Petty Officer Long’s determination, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon her and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Gunner’s Mate Second Class (Surface Warfare) Tyrone P. McNeal
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer McNeal performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. He was instrumental in the coordination and establishment of the shipboard security teams and served as the personal guard of the suspected Yemeni husbanding agent for 12 hours. He also assisted the damage control efforts to dewater Main Engine Room Number Two. Petty Officer McNeal’s determination, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sonar Technician First Class (Surface Warfare) Charles McPeters
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer McPeters performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. He retrieved necessary equipment for repair locker personnel, which allowed them to reach shipmates trapped and wounded in damaged spaces. He also assisted in the treatment of several wounded crewmembers and contributed greatly to patch a leaking pipe in Auxiliary Equipment Room Number Two. Petty Officer McPeters’ quick actions, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Gas Turbine Technician Fireman Bryan Mitchell
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Fireman Mitchell demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He assisted in rescuing a seriously wounded shipmate by administrating first aid until the injured Sailor was stable enough to be moved to the flight deck triage area. Fireman Mitchell then assisted with numerous damage control efforts, which included investigation of internal damaged areas. Fireman Mitchell’s determination, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fire Controlman Third Class Jason J. Mosher
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Mosher performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. He transported damage control equipment to Repair Locker Two. He was instrumental in relaying damage control information, which contributed to a complete and accurate damage control picture that helped save the ship. He also provided breathing equipment to wounded Sailors. Petty Officer Mosher’s personal initiative, teamwork, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Ensign Newton demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He rushed to the scene of the explosion and assisted in the movement of injured personnel from the galley to the triage area. In order to reach the injured personnel, he had to make his way through twisted metal and live electrical wires hanging from the overhead. Ensign Newton’s quick actions, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Mess Management Specialist First Class (Surface Warfare) Adrian L. Payne
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Payne performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. He supervised all food service operations on Cole, which included providing over 1,200 meals per day despite the loss of all galley equipment. Overcoming the 100 plus degree temperatures, he ensured all sanitation standards were met, directly contributing to the prevention of any food-borne illnesses. Petty Officer Payne’s quick actions, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Chief Personnelman (Surface Warfare) Suzan D. Pearce
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Chief Petty Officer Pearce demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. She proceeded to Repair Locker Two to aid the repair locker officer as an experienced member of Cole’s damage control training team. Additionally, for the first six days following the attack, she stood in as acting department head. Chief Petty Officer Pearce’s perseverance, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon her and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fire Controlman Third Class David M. Sanders
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Sanders demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He immediately assisted in rendering first aid for two severely injured crewmembers, by stopping the bleeding of one and providing breathing assistance for the other. Once relieved of first aid duties, he took the initiative to rig a box fan in the aft airlock to ventilate the interior of the ship. Petty Officer Sanders’ perseverance, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Mess Management Specialist Second Class (Surface Warfare) Kenneth R. Schroeter
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Schroeter performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. He took charge of coordinating the daily delivery and serving of over 1,200 meals despite the loss of all galley equipment. He ensured sanitary standards and procedures were met, overcoming extreme heat and a dirty living environment. In addition, he also stood damage control watches. Petty Officer Schroeter’s perseverance, personal initiative, and loyal devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Operations Specialist Third Class Johnnie Smith
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Smith demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He made his way to the Chief’s Mess through damaged passageways to assist in the treatment and evacuation of wounded personnel. He also worked to help extricate and move a critically wounded crewman from the destroyed Chief’s Mess to safety. Petty Officer Smith’s perseverance, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Gunner’s Mate First Class (Surface Warfare) Stafford H. Tyson
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Tyson performed his demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. He was instrumental in the coordination and establishment of a security team to prevent follow-on attacks. Arming himself and others, he quickly proceeded topside and assumed a sniper position on the starboard bridge wing. Petty Officer Tyson’s quick actions, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Information Systems Technician Second Class Andrew P. Voyer
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Voyer demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He rushed into the heavily damaged galley area and helped with the rescue of wounded Sailors. This decisive action was instrumental in saving lives. Additionally, Petty Officer Voyer worked tirelessly to dewater the refrigeration decks and Auxiliary Machine Room Number Two. He performed at a level far beyond his rank and experience. Petty Officer Voyer’s perseverance, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Engineman Second Class (Surface Warfare) Vernon E. Walker
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Walker performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Performing as an investigator, his actions were critical in determining the extent of damage and enabling Cole’s repair teams to quickly control flooding. He was instrumental in restoring number four air conditioning unit. He also performed his duties at a level far beyond his years and rank. Petty Officer Walker’s perseverance, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Damage Controlman First Class (Surface Warfare) Michael L. Webb
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Webb performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. As Repair Two Locker leader, he ensured the right equipment and personnel were employed to dewater Main Engine Room Number Two and Auxiliary Machinery Room Number Two while keeping a solid AFFF blanket on the fuel in the affected spaces. These critical actions prevented fire and progressive flooding. Petty Officer Webb’s perseverance, personal initiative, and loyal devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Lieutenant (Supply Corps) Denise D. Woodfin
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Lieutenant Woodfin performed her demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Ignoring her own broken arm and other injuries, she headed to the foc’sle where she immediately began coordinating efforts for the mounting numbers of casualties. She calmly provided radio coordination with the bridge to coordinate security. Later, she assisted at a makeshift triage area. Lieutenant Woodfin’s unrelenting perseverance, personal initiative, and loyal devotion to duty reflected credit upon her and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fireman Apprentice Jeremiah J. Wright
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Fireman Wright demonstrated exemplary initiative and disregard for personal safety. He immediately performed duties as a stretcher-bearer. He moved several injured personnel to safer locations to receive critical medical attention. Also, he was a key member of the shoring team that reinforced the aft bulkhead of Auxiliary Machinery Room Number One. He performed his duties at a level far beyond his years and rank. Fireman Wright’s perseverance, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Fire Controlman Second Class (Surface Warfare) Joseph P. Zide
For professional achievement while serving aboard USS Cole (DDG-67) in Aden, Yemen, from 12 to 31 October 2000. During the aftermath of a terrorist attack, Petty Officer Zide performed his duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Petty Officer Zide was responsible for the initial investigation of damaged spaces. His efforts helped provide a complete and accurate picture of the battle damage, which was instrumental in executing a proper plan of attack. In addition, he assisted in the rigging of peri-jet eductors to offset the rising water levels. Petty Officer Zide’s untiring efforts, personal initiative, and unswerving devotion to duty reflected credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
