SECNAV Instruction 1650.1G

SECNAVINST 1650.1G(1) Individuals must have distinguished themselvesabove those who have already won distinction for heroism.(2) Individuals must have performed a worthwhile actor an act that was considered worthwhile at the time. Needlessand foolish risking of life, or tempting of fate is notconsidered worthwhile.(3) The act must have been performed voluntarily.This requirement should not be applied so strictly that a personwould be excluded from consideration, who in carrying outorders, does more on his/her own volition than could ordinarilybe expected under the circumstances.(4) Did the individual choose not to seek cover ordid the individual leave a place of comparative safety toperform the act without direct orders or without being forcedinto the more dangerous situation by circumstances over whichthe individual had no control?(5) Had the individual not performed the actioncited, would there be cause for censure or blame? A person whofailed to perform the duties that are expected of one of his/herrank and experience and for which he/she had been trained mightbe considered a candidate for censure rather than praise.(6) The act performed by the individual must nothave been motivated by a desire for self-preservation.c. If there is no previous record for the adjudicationof extraordinary heroism for decorations awarded, adjudicationwill be made when the individual applies for transfer to theFleet or Fleet Marine Corps Reserve.d. Action. The following procedures are effective forthe determination of extraordinary heroism benefits:(1) Commanders possessing delegated award authority.Review all heroic awards approved and provide recommendationswhether or not the individual qualifies for extraordinaryheroism within the criteria contained in this section.2-8