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 Platoon Sergeant William H. Kelly, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 24 February 1963, at Moss Landing, California. While on the picnic grounds of Moss Landing, Sergeant Kelly heard shouts for help coming from three adults who were prevented by the undertow from rescuing a drowning boy who was drifting rapidly farther out into the ocean. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he unhesitatingly entered the treacherous waters and swam to the child. Upon reaching the boy, he instructed him to take a firm grip on his shirt to enable towing. The boy became panic-stricken and grabbed Sergeant Kelly around the neck. With calmness and determination, he quickly submerged, broke the boy’s hold, grabbed him firmly and, upon surfacing, treaded water until approached by a large cabin cruiser. When the cabin cruiser could not affect the rescue, a small outboard skiff maneuvered close enough for him to safely assist the boy into it. Sergeant Kelly’s sound judgment, perseverance, and heroic action are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect distinct credit on himself and the military service. (This award supersedes the award of the Army Commendation Medal to Sergeant Kelly for heroism at Moss Landing, California, on 24 February 1963 as announced in General Orders Number 16, Headquarters, United States Army Training Center, Infantry at Fort Ord, California, dated 28 March 1963.)