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 First Class Norman D. Backues, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Headquarters, 201st Logistical Command (A), United States Forces, on 11 August 1958, at Read Beach, Beirut Lebanon. While swimming with members of his unit, Private Backues heard a cry for assistance from a soldier caught in a dangerous undertow and being swept out to sea. With complete disregard for his own personal safety and despite foreknowing the danger existing in the extremely rough and choppy waves since he had assisted in a previous rescue, Private Backues immediately went to the aid of the distressed swimmer and brought him to safety into shallow waters. Upon reaching the beach he further aided in applying artificial respiration to revive the victim. Private Backues’ prompt and courageous action was instrumental in saving the life of the follow soldier under extreme hazardous conditions, reflecting the most credit on himself and the military service.