Employee awarded Humanitarian Service Award

By Daphne Burke, NAVAIR Depot Jax, Public Affairs Specialist

On August 16, Naval Air Depot Jacksonville Commanding Officer Capt. Karl Yeakel awarded Detlev “Joe” Wilkerson, quality assurance specialist, the Civilian Award for Humanitarian Service in recognition of his unselfish, heroic, compassionate efforts made on April 23. During an evening walk with his dog, Wilkerson notice smoke coming from his neighbor’s house.
Wilkerson, a retired Marine Corps veteran and Oklahoma native, investigated the source of the smoke knowing that his neighbor, 87-year-old Victoria Esposito, may be inside. Wilkerson walked to the rear of the home where he noticed through a window that Esposito was attempting to exit the burning structure. Placing himself in harm’s way, Wilkerson broke down the door and physically assisted Esposito to the safety of a neighbor’s home.
Removing Esposito from this life-threatening situation potentially saved her life. Due to Wilkerson’s valiant act, Esposito has recovered fully from this tragic event.
Wilkerson and his wife, Sueli, have two sons, Brian, 23, and Scott, 20.

Photo by Victor Pitts, Public Affairs Specialist

Photo Caption - NAVAIR Depot Jacksonville Commanding Officer, Captain Karl Yeakel presents Detlev "Joe" Wilkerson with the Civilian Award for Humanitarian Service.

– USN –