Mayport Sailors Receive Medal for Jetty Rescue
Two sailors are honored for rescuing four people stranded on the jetties at Naval Station Mayport.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Emergency Response
Petty Officer 3rd Class Kole Patten and Petty Officer 3rd Class Emmanuel Roberson received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for their lifesaving actions. The pair rescued four people from the jetties at Naval Station Mayport.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights the technical expertise and emergency readiness of base security personnel in challenging maritime environments. Their actions emphasize the importance of rapid response capabilities in protecting lives near military installations.
The rescue involved four people stranded on the jetties at Naval Station Mayport. The sailors received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for their technical expertise during the operation.
The players
Kole Patten
He is a master-at-arms in the base security department who graduated from George Mason University.
Emmanuel Roberson
He is a Navy sailor who received the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for his role in the rescue.
The details
Patten, a master-at-arms who joined the Navy three years ago, utilized his training to perform the rescue alongside Roberson. The ceremony recognized both sailors for their instrumental roles in ensuring the safety of those trapped on the rocks.
Timeline
July 4: Kole Patten performed the rescue.
October 21, 2026: Article publication date.
Seasonal Patterns
This incident aligns with the established safety protocols at Naval Station Mayport regarding maritime emergency response. These efforts reflect the base's operational commitment to securing the local coastline and managing civilian-military interface risks.
This rescue serves as a reminder for residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution near jetty structures where conditions can change rapidly. Always observe posted safety warnings and stay clear of restricted military shoreline zones to ensure personal safety.
The takeaway
The honors underscore how specialized training enables service members to effectively manage unpredictable emergencies in local waters. Such events emphasize the critical role of readiness in ensuring public safety near the coast.
Further reading
Learn more about local safety operations on the Jacksonville Emergency Response page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Witn.
