The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Specialist Fourth Class Fred E. Ervin, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Headquarters Detachment, United States Army General Depot, Metz, on 19 July 1959, in the vicinity of Remich, Luxembourg. Specialist Ervin and several companions were sitting on the bank of the Moselle River in the City of Remich when they observed a young boy who was swimming in the river at that point disappear into the deep boat channel. Without hesitation or concern for his own personal safety, Specialist Ervin plunged into the swift waters of the river and, after much physical exertion, succeeded in pulling the young victim to safety. Specialist Ervin’s prompt, decisive action and courageous effort saved this boy from certain death by drowning. The unselfish heroism which he displayed in this sudden emergency is worthy of emulation, and reflects distinct credit upon himself and the military service.