On March 23, 1966, during what is now referred to as the Palomares incident, a B-52 bomber carrying four hydrogen bombs collided with a refueling tanker in Spain, resulting in one of its nuclear weapons plunging into the sea.

 On March 23, 1966, during what is now referred to as the Palomares incident, a B-52 bomber carrying four hydrogen bombs collided with a refueling tanker in Spain, resulting in one of its nuclear weapons plunging into the sea.

During the U.S. Navy salvage team's efforts to retrieve the bomb, the towing line snapped, propelling a heavy steel pipe towards the team. 

In a remarkable display of heroism, diver Carl Brashear shielded his fellow team members by deliberately placing himself in the path of the pipe, sustaining an injury to his leg.

Despite the harrowing ordeal, Brashear not only survived but also achieved recertification as a master diver, despite having his leg amputated. This remarkable feat made him the first amputee diver in Navy history.

Brashear was motivated by his beliefs, saying "It's not a sin to get knocked down; it's a sin to stay down" and "I ain't going to let nobody steal my dream."

In recognition of his role in recovering the bomb, Brashear was subsequently honored with the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, the highest navy award for non-combat heroism.