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 Robert A. Holtzclaw, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy at Fort Hood, Texas, on 30 July 1970. Specialist Holtzclaw was a passenger in a boat being operated in darkness during a military exercise that collided with a tree stump, throwing two other soldiers into the water. Specialist Holtzclaw immediately dived overboard and rescued one of the soldiers who was about to drown. Unable to locate the second man in the dark and muddy water, he sent the boat for lights and assistance. He voluntarily remained alone at the scene and continued to search for the other soldier in vain. This effort was made extremely difficult and dangerous by the presence of numerous, submerged tree branches. Specialist Holtzclaw saved one life and voluntarily made a protracted and dangerous effort to save another. His actions were in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflected great credit on him and the United States Army.