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 Sergeant Vernon R. Geyer, Jr., United States Army, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy, at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 12 February 1944. On that date, Sergeant Geyer dived into the ocean and swam 200 yards to rescue a drowning officer, who was caught in a strong undertow. He kept him afloat until a canoe arrived to take him to the beach. His courageous action was greatly responsible for saving the officer’s life. The heroism displayed by Sergeant Geyer on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.