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 Joseph A. Lattyak (ASN: 36009210), United States Army, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while serving with the 164th Infantry Regiment, 23d Infantry Division (Americal), at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 13 October 1944. On that date, a member of Private Lattyak’s platoon, carrying a heavy pack, was swept from his feet while crossing a swift torrent. Private Lattyak threw off his equipment, ran downstream about thirty yards and plunged into the rain-swollen river. He grappled with the distressed man, finally pulling him to safety thirty-five yards further downstream. Private First Class Lattyak’s quick thinking and disregard for his own life undoubtedly saved the life of the rescued man, and emulates the highest traditions of the Armed Forces.