AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Peacetime
MODEL:  HH-60J

Citation:  1.) The afternoon of 18 October 1994, while serving as Rescue Swimmer aboard Coast Guard HH-60J helicopter 6006 engaged in rescue operations brought on by severe flooding of the San Jacinto River east of Houston, Texas. Petty Officer MUMFORD repeatedly deployed through hazardous obstacles and elevated stilt houses rocked by raging flood waters. He narrowly escaped serious injury when a structure gave way beneath him and cast him into the swift 10 knot current toward the trees. Undaunted, he gave a "thumbs up" to the aircrew to continue the rescue of two survivors. Later he deployed to a house with a strong current flowing through the lower floor to rescue a woman who was trapped in the kitchen. Hanging on to the hoist cable, he forced the door open using a wooded awning as a brace. Still on the cable, he made his way against the current to rescue the hysterical woman. As the treacherous current swept an adjacent home into the trees, Petty Officer MUMFORD delivered the woman to the safety of the aircraft cabin. Petty Officer MUMFORD's actions, skill and valor were instrumental in the rescue of seven victims. His courage, judgement and devotion to duty are most heartily commended and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Coast Guard.