SoCal Coast Guard member awarded medal for heroic rescues during Lahaina wildfires

SAN PEDRO, Calif. (KABC) -- Petty Officer 2nd Class John Thompson was recognized at the U.S. Coast Guard Base Los Angeles-Long Beach for his heroic actions during the devastating Lahaina wildfires in August 2023.

"I was the coxswain of a small boat, a 45-foot RB-M. We took it out that night just to try and find as many people as we can and bring them back to shore and safety," Thompson said.

"He took action," said Kyra Dykeman, Coast Guard Deputy Commander for Sector Honolulu. "He got on scene, he helped coordinate a Coast Guard surface swimmer who went inside the reef line to start affecting rescues and help local responders evacuate people who were stranded ashore."

Thompson was stationed in Maui for two years before relocating to San Pedro. He said he's never experienced anything like the Lahaina wildfires before.

Related story: Maui wildfires a year later: The major developments amid the cleanup and recovery

"What they encountered was a harrowing scene of an entire town engulfed in flames, raining embers, thick black smoke," Dykeman said. "Many times unable to see where they were transiting due to the smoke."

Despite the overwhelming challenges, Thompson helped rescue more than 17 people and assisted 40 ashore. His courageous actions during the disaster earned him the Coast Guard Medal, one of the highest honors awarded by the Coast Guard.

"The Coast Guard Medal is a medal that's not often given out, but when it is given out, it's for what's inscribed on the back of it, which is heroism," said Rear Admiral Joseph Buzzella. "People are home today because of his efforts and his boat crew's efforts."

Related story: Family jumps into ocean to escape fire in Lahaina as cars explode around them

"It was pretty scary, something I didn't know what I was walking into," Thompson said. "I know my teammates and my crew had already been out there and risked their lives, so I knew I had to do it anyway."

Thompson said he is grateful to have received the Coast Guard Medal and it has inspired him to continue working hard and remain dedicated to his service.

Related story: Maui wildfires force community to take action in year after fatal tragedy