KINGS POINT, N.Y., January 15, 2015 – Yesterday, during a lunchtime ceremony at the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) at Kings Point, Midshipman First Class Collin Putnam received a medal recognizing him for an " act of heroism at the risk of his own life while assigned to the USNS GRUMMAN on 18 December 2013."

While on waiting for a bus to return to the ship from liberty in Souda Bay, Crete, Midshipman Putnam’s shipmate was attacked. Upon being alerted to the attack, Midshipman Putnam immediately and unhesitatingly came to his aid.

During the ceremony, Rear Admiral James A. Helis, Superintendent pinned the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Service Professional Achievement Medal on Midshipman Putnam’s uniform in front of the entire Regiment of Midshipmen, faculty and staff. The medal was accompanied by a citation from the Secretary of Transportation, Anthony Foxx, which read: “Midshipman Putnam’s quick actions protected his injured shipmate and dispatched all of the armed assailants.  By his great courage, initiative, and selflessness, Midshipman Putnam reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Merchant Marine Academy and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Maritime Service.”

After receiving the award Midshipman Putnam humbly stated, "I saw my friend in need and I did everything I could to help him.  I know he would have done the same for me.  I am honored that Secretary Foxx saw fit to recognized me and my actions, but it was not necessary.  I’m just glad everything worked out."