LUSBY, Md. — A Navy utilitiesman from Lusby, Maryland, was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal on June 27 for heroic actions that saved a fellow sailor following a maritime training accident off the coast of Southern California.
Utilitiesman 1st Class Steven Schumacher, currently stationed in Coronado, California, with the Naval Construction Force, received the medal during a ceremony at the Silver Strand Training Complex in San Diego. The Navy and Marine Corps Medal is the highest non-combat decoration awarded by the Department of the Navy, recognizing acts of heroism in situations not involving armed conflict.
The incident occurred as Schumacher and his team were returning to Naval Amphibious Base Coronado after nighttime maritime training. Their vessel struck a submerged jetty, injuring several crew members, including one sailor who was thrown into the water, unconscious and facedown.
Despite being injured himself, Schumacher rescued the sailor, bringing him back to the vessel where medical personnel were able to provide care.
Schumacher’s actions, the Navy said, demonstrated exceptional bravery, quick decision-making and selfless dedication — qualities that reflect the core values of the U.S. Navy and Naval Special Warfare.
Schumacher, a graduate of Patuxent High School and an Eagle Scout from Lusby, Md., serves with the Naval Construction Force, also known as the Seabees, who provide essential construction support to military operations worldwide. Their missions include building roads, airfields, bridges and bases, as well as supporting disaster recovery and humanitarian efforts.
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Great article Tony. So happy to see a happy ending story.