Hiedeman and a fellow seaman were on the beach when they saw two women being carried out to sea by large waves. The two men swam out and rescued both endangered swimmers.
Captain E. A. Boyd, commanding officer of the USS Ticonderoga congratulated the two men for action "becoming of a Navy man" and awarded the medals.
Hiedeman was later nominated to represent his department in competition for selection of his ships "Petty Officer of the Month" award. His nomination was made by his department head based on Hiedeman's "exceptionally fine performance of duty, military conduct, initiative and attitude," according to Captain Boyd.