AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Peacetime
MODEL:  HH-65

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Petty Officer Roman D. Baligad, Aviation Survival Technician Second Class, for heroic achievement in aerial flight during the early morning of 30 December 2002 while serving as the rescue swimmer on Coast Guard HH-65A 6533 engaged in the rescue of a crewman from the tug PRIMO BRUSCO which sank 25 miles southwest of Florence, Oregon. A swift moving low pressure system gripped the Oregon Coast producing heavy rain, wind gusts to 70 knots, and 20-30 foot seas. After transiting to the scene thru darkness and turbulent conditions, the crew of CG 6533 made an approach to the water where three strobe lights had been spotted by another helicopter. The survivor was located and Petty Officer Baligad prepared for a direct delivery to the water. As he was lowered below CG 6533, he began to swing violently in the wind only a few feet above the storm tossed seas. He dangled helplessly below the helicopter for 12 minutes as the crew attempted to deliver him to the survivor. Each time he came close, the wind would blow him away and the seas would push the survivor out of reach. Knowing the helicopter's fuel was getting critically low, and fearing the victim might not survive if left alone, Petty Officer Baligad made a selfless decision to disconnect from the hoist cable and swim through the heavy seas to reach the survivor. Fighting the wind and waves, he skillfully placed the survivor into the rescue basket and, within moments, they were both safely aboard CG 6533. Petty Officer Baligad’s actions and skill were instrumental in the saving of one life. His courage, judgment, and devotion to duty are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.