Air Force officer honored for heroism

Maj. Michael Medrano receives the Airman’s Medal for saving two children during a Texas vacation

ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Georgia (Air Force Reserve Command Public Affairs)– Reserve leadership recognized Maj. Michael Medrano, with the Airman’s Medal Aug. 2 at the Museum of Aviation.

The ceremony, which took place at the museum’s Nugteren Hangar, put the spotlight on Maj. Medrano’s heroic actions that saved the lives of two children during his vacation last summer. Medrano is the C-5 functional manager at the A3 headquarters directorate at Robins AFB.

Brig. Gen. Michael Schultz, Director of Operations, Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration, led the recognition ceremony.

According to the award citation, Medrano was fishing at a jetty on July 5, 2023 in Port Aransas, Texas.

“Without hesitation and with complete disregard for his own safety, Medrano rushed to their aid. Despite the risk of being pulled into the churning water himself, Medrano clung to the steep side of the rocky jetty and successfully pulled the bloodied children to safety.”

The major quickly put his military survival skills to use and assessed their injuries and promptly called 911 for emergency medical assistance.

“With great care and caution, he guided the group along the treacherous jetty, interlocking arms with both children to ensure their safe transit to the shoreline. Once there, he handed them over to the responding emergency medical technicians.

Medrano’s heroic actions exemplify the highest standards of bravery and selflessness. His quick thinking, courage, and adherence to his military training undoubtedly saved the lives of these endangered children. Through his extraordinary efforts, he has brought immense credit not only to himself but also to the United States Air Force.”

(Submitted by Air Force Reserve Command Public Affairs)