Star of Courage

• Awarded on: July 15, 1985
• Invested on: December 06, 1985

While enjoying a snorkelling dive at Mehetia, French Polynesia, on 1 September 1984, Robert Sladen noticed that his co-diver was in trouble. In an attempt to retrieve his spear gun, the man had apparently lost consciousness; he was seen drifting over a ledge and sinking into very deep water. Mr. Sladen, a certified diver well aware of his limitations, quickly dove in pursuit. He reached the man on the bottom and picked him up, but collapsed before he could reach the ship and don scuba gear before attempting a rescue, Mr. Sladen elected to push himself to his limit of endurance to save a friend. Sadly, both perished.