Sergeant First Class, Recruiting and Retention Battalion, California National Guard

California Military Department

12/30/2015

Special Act Award (Gold)

On December 30, 2015, at 8:00 a.m., Sergeant First Class Michael J. Long witnessed a vehicle run off the road and launch into frigid waters. Without hesitation, Sergeant First Class Long stopped his vehicle, jumped a fence, and ran to help the trapped driver. With the assistance of a retired Airman and a California Highway Patrol Officer, Sergeant First Class Long entered the water as the car began to sink and, without regard for his own safety, wedged his knees under the rear of the car to keep the vehicle from sinking while the Highway Patrol Officer broke the window to extract the trapped driver. Sergeant First Class Long then swam the driver ashore and rendered first aid until the ambulance arrived. Due to Sergeant First Class Long’s swift actions, the driver did not sustain any serious injuries. His actions demonstrate unwavering courage and reflect great credit upon himself, the California Military Department and the State of California.