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Auction: 347 - The Numismatic Collector's Series Sale
Lot: 62

United States. U.S. Coast Guard. Gold Life Saving Medal awarded to Jarvise Shelton for events of June 12, 2012. In original case with riband bar and lapel bar, Certificate and folder, and Order of Ceremonies Program; also US Coast Guard MSU Huntington badge.

While working aboard the towboat Richard A. Baker and her tow of 25 barges on the Upper Mississippi River near St. Louis, Missouri, the evening of June 12, 2012, Jarvise Shelton and Kyle Hardman heard cries for help. Seeing a pleasure craft disabled and adrift, they realized the family aboard was in imminent danger of being dragged beneath the river barge fleet. Quickly launching the Baker's Zodiac workboat, Shelton and Hardman made numerous attempts to throw a rescue line to the terrified family. But the frantic passengers were unable to secure the line.

In desperation, one held out an infant to Hardman. But as the Zodiac was courageously maneuvered closer, the swift, unpredictable current capsized the craft ejecting both men. Shelton was able to pull himself onto the bottom of the capsized boat. Hardman went under. Shelton called another towboat Miss Sheila to assist Hardman, who was pulled out. Once he was rescued and aboard the Miss Sheila, Shelton attempted to revive Hardman but exhausted all attempts. Turning his attention back to the imperiled family, Shelton and other rescuers pulled one man to safety just as the pleasure craft disappeared beneath the barge. The other members of the family were recovered by the nearby towboat Jackie Sue.

Uncirculated. Light bruise to folder's upper spine.

Sold for
$1,900