BUFFALO-- New York Naval Militia Petty Boatswains Mate 2nd Class Dawn Burgess (left) is awarded the New York State Military Commendaiton medal during a ceremony here at the Navy Operational Support Center by Chief Warrant Officer Philip Slominski.
Burgess was honored for her performance as Coxswain onboard Patrol Boat 281 on May 28-31, 2009 as the Naval Militia was supporting the 2009 ESL Air and Water Show in Rochester.
Her boat, along with craft from other agencies were tasked with establishing a restricted zone off Ontario Beach so the air show could be conducted safely.
On May 31 high seas forced other boats to quit the restricted zone but Burgess was able to maintain station, allowing the air show to continue. Her actions in this case were lauded by the local Coast Guard Station.