Carl Brashear

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Records

Carl Brashear's achievements stand as a testament to human endurance and the power of breaking barriers. He was the first African American Master Diver in the U.S. Navy and the first amputee to achieve this rank, a distinction earned against overwhelming odds. His induction into the Navy Hall of Heroes in 1997 recognized his exceptional valor and dedication. The release of Men of Honor in 2000 introduced his story to a global audience, cementing his place in history as a pioneer for diversity and inclusion in the military. His legacy lives on through the USNS Carl Brashear and the scholarship fund that bears his name.

AwardsCarl Brashear received numerous honors throughout his life and posthumously. He was inducted into the U.S. Navy Hall of Heroes in 1997, receiving the highest non-combat award for valor. In 2000, the film Men of Honor brought widespread attention to his story. Posthumous recognitions include his induction into the Naval Undersea Museum Hall of Fame shortly after his death in 2006. The U.S. Navy commissioned the USNS Carl Brashear (T-AKE-7), a Lewis B. Puller-class fast combat support ship, which was launched in 2013 and remains active in the fleet as of 2026.

Honours & Distinctions

Navy Hall of Heroes

U.S. Navy·1997

Highest non-combat award for valor

Naval Undersea Museum Hall of Fame

Naval Undersea Museum·2006

Posthumous induction honoring his contributions to diving

USNS Carl Brashear

U.S. Navy·2013

Commissioning of a fast combat support ship in his honor

Fireboat Carl Brashear

Newport News Fire Department·2007

Dedication of a 33-foot high-speed fireboat

Records & Feats

First African American Master Diver

Historic First·1970

Achieved the rank of Master Diver in 1970, becoming the first African American to hold this position in the U.S. Navy.

First Amputee Diver

Historic First·1970

Became the first amputee diver certified in the U.S. Navy after losing his leg in 1966 and returning to duty in 1970.