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 Victor Gauthier, United States Army, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while serving with Battery D, 103d Field Artillery, Rhode Island National Guard, in saving an enlisted man from drowning at Municipal Beach, Lake Champlain, Plattsburgh, New York, on 15 August 1939. While swimming about 100 yards from shore, a comrade was suddenly seized with cramps, called for help, sank below the surface and was in grave danger of drowning. Responding to his cry for help, Private Gauthier, with utter disregard for his own safety, immediately swam to his rescue and succeeded in bringing him safely to shore, thereby saving his life.