USS Springfield Sailor Receives Proclamation from Ledyard Mayor for Act of Heroism

By Lt. Cmdr. Jennifer Cragg, Commander, Submarine Group 2 Public Affairs

GROTON, Conn. (NNS) -- A USS Springfield (SSN 761) Sailor received a proclamation from the mayor of Ledyard in Groton Feb. 10 for his brave actions in rescuing a man from a burning vehicle after a two-car collision.

Mayor John Rodolico presented Chief Culinary Specialist Daniel Spencer, a native of Saegertown, Penn., with a proclamation and added that his actions that day were an act of extreme volunteerism, which is heroism.

"We always think of the Navy base in terms of the defense of our nation, but what we are seeing here today is another important role that the Navy provides and that is volunteers in our community, volunteers that make our community work," said Rodolico.

In addition, Spencer also received a certificate of heroism from the Gales Ferry Fire Company, which also named him an honorary Gales Ferry firefighter.

Spencer saved the life of a Ledyard citizen by rescuing him from a burning vehicle Jan. 18. Spencer witnessed a car driving northbound on Route 12 that swerved into the oncoming lane and resulted in a head-on collision, that ignited one of the vehicles. Spencer also assisted the other injured driver to safety despite her two broken legs until first responders from the Gales Ferry Fire Company arrived.

Spencer added that his training in the Navy, in particular the submarine force, prepared him to take action.

"Submariners are trained to take charge and take action in any sort of situation," said Spencer. "My training and instincts kicked in, and I did what needed to be done to help those in need."

Cmdr. Chris Williams, Springfield's commanding officer, reflected on Spencer's actions.

"Chief Spencer is a great Sailor and his actions are indicative of his character and commitment," said Williams. "He is an example of the high quality Sailors serving in our Navy."

Williams added that submariners are some of the most highly trained and skilled people serving in the U.S. Navy.

Spencer thanked everyone for attending the ceremony.

"I'm extremely honored that the town of Ledyard, Naval Submarine Base New London, and USS Springfield are taking the time for this occasion," said Spencer.

Springfield was built by General Dynamics Electric Boat Division and is the 50th Los Angeles-class submarine delivered to the Navy. The submarine's crew includes 15 officers and 110 enlisted Sailors.

Since its commission in 1993, Springfield has conducted eight deployments and has been awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation, along with numerous accolades for excellence in operations, engineering, navigation, weapons, retention, logistics and food service.