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 Private James S. Ball (ASN: 35047811), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States while serving with while serving with the 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action at Guadalcanal on 18 April 1943. Private Ball, hearing a cry for help, disregarded the danger to himself, and plunged into the exceedingly swift current of the Lunga River, where a treacherous under-tow current was known to exist, to rescue a soldier, who, while swimming, received a cramp which paralyzed the entire left side of his body. This act of heroism saved the life of the rescued man. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Private Ball reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.