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 Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery) Freddy J. Watts (ASN: 0-5430229), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Headquarters, 272nd Aviation Company, Fort sill, Oklahoma, on 28 September 1967. Lieutenant Watts, while traveling near Geraldine, Alabama, came upon the scene of an accident where a truck had crashed through a bridge and plunged 60 feet into Town Creek. As a result of recent heavy rains, the creek was approximately 20 feet deep with strong swift currents. Lieutenant Watts, without hesitation, jumped into the rain swollen creek and assisted a State Trooper in removing the two occupants to the top of the truck which was loaded with gasoline, further adding danger to the rescue operations. At this time another State Trooper paddled a small boat to the truck and after loading the two men into the boat, it capsized in the treacherous water. One of the State Troopers became tangled in a rope tied to the boat and was pulled under the swift water. Lieutenant Watts, with complete disregard for his safety, dived under the water, untangled the officer and moved him to the safety of the creek bank and gave him artificial respiration. Later, Lieutenant Watts entered the swift currents again and assisted in removing the other men to safety. Lieutenant Watts, through his voluntary risk of life, was instrumental in saving the lives of two men. This courageous act in complete disregard for his safety reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.