NAWCWD China Lake, Calif. Public Affairs Office--Elijah Soto, a flight test engineer at Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division China Lake, Calif. was surprised with a Superior Civilian Medal of Valor during an all hands meeting, Thursday, Feb. 1. This honored citation was presented by NAVAIR Commander Vice Adm. Walter Massenburg from Patuxent River, MD. Soto is the first civilian employee ever to receive the Superior Civilian Medal of Valor throughout the entire NAVAIR organization.

Soto was recognized for his heroic efforts in rescuing Ron Sugart, 69, and Paul Gause, 53, when they were thrown overboard on the rough waters of Lake Isabella in June 2006.

The citation, accompanying the award, was read by Rear Adm. Mark Skinner, commander of the NAWC Weapons Division. It summarized the events of rescue, and concluded, “In the face of a dangerous situation, Mr. Soto took charge and responded to the need for help with skill and determination. His sense of responsibility to his fellow man exemplifies the qualities of a true leader, and reflects great credit upon himself, the Command and the United States Navy. Thank you for a job well done!”

After their boat capsized and sank, Sugart, without a life vest, was spotted by Soto and his friends Mark Stuart and Jack Cargill, holding onto a floating seat cushion. Once Sugart was pulled ashore, he told the rescuers he had not been alone in the boat and his friend, Gause, had probably drowned.

Risking their own lives in severe wind gusts of 35-50 miles per hour, Soto and his friends went back through the waves to search for Gause. By this time, more than two hours had lapsed but the rescuers' courageous attempt proved life-saving when they retrieved Gause from the icy waters.

The surprised Soto said, “I was so glad that my friends were with me. Anyone else would have done the same thing.”

In conclusion, the NAVAIR commander gave Soto his personal commemorative coin with three stars above pilot wings as a reminder of this significant event.

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Cutline: (Right) Elijah Soto, flight test engineer at Weapons Division China Lake, receives the Superior Civilian Medal of Valor award from NAVAIR Commander Vice Adm. Wally Massenburg.