This Day in the Navy

Thomas Norris & Michael E. Thornton

1972: A SEAL's Ultimate Sacrifice for His Brother

October 31, 1972, witnessed one of the most heroic acts in Navy SEAL history. Engineman Second Class Michael E. Thornton was serving as a SEAL advisor on an intelligence-gathering mission against a North Vietnamese naval river base when his five-man patrol came under fire from a numerically superior enemy force.

During the intense firefight and subsequent withdrawal, Thornton learned that the patrol leader—a SEAL lieutenant—had been hit and was believed dead. Without hesitation, Thornton turned back into the face of enemy gunfire, returning to the officer's last known position.

He found the lieutenant unconscious but alive, with two enemy soldiers closing in. Thornton killed both attackers, then carried the wounded officer to safety. After inflating the lieutenant's lifejacket, Thornton pulled him through the water for two hours until they were picked up by a support craft.

Michael E. Thornton received the Medal of Honor for his selfless heroism. Remarkably, he saved the life of Lieutenant Thomas Norris—himself a Medal of Honor recipient for earlier actions in Vietnam. This remains the only instance where a Medal of Honor recipient saved the life of another Medal of Honor recipient.

Honoring Their Legacy

This historical moment reminds us why we do what we do at Knot Your Average Grain. Every custom paddle, plaque, and award we create honors the courage, sacrifice, and brotherhood exemplified by sailors like Captain Bainbridge's crew, James E. Williams, and Michael E. Thornton.

From the early days of the Barbary Wars to the rivers of Vietnam, Navy personnel have consistently demonstrated that honor, courage, and commitment aren't just words—they're a way of life.

At Knot Your Average Grain, we're proud to craft custom military recognition products that honor these traditions. Whether you're commemorating a retirement, change of command, or exceptional service, our veteran-owned business understands the significance of every award.

Explore our collection of custom Navy paddles, military plaques, and specialty awards that honor the legacy of those who serve.

Fair winds and following seas.

Have a Navy story to share? We'd love to hear it. Contact us at sales@knotyouraveragegrain.com