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 Robert J. Christie, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the Hospital Detachment, United States Army Hospital, Fort Ord, California, in the vicinity of Carmel by the Sea, California, on 8 April 1960. Private Christie and several companions were sitting on the Carmel Beach when shouts from others on the beach attracted his attention to a swimmer who was being dragged helplessly out to the open sea by the heavy surf. Disregarding the significant of a shark warning report which was announced earlier, and acting without hesitation or concern for his own personal safety, Private Christie plunged into the choppy water and swam out against the strong waves in an effort to aid the exhausted, floundering swimmer. Time after time, the swift currents swept him back. Finally, after many grueling attempts, he reached the victim, helped him keep afloat, and assisted him back into shallow water where others on the beach pulled both of them for ashore. Private Christie’s prompt, decisive action and courageous effort saved the young soldier from certain death by drowning. The unselfish heroism which he displayed in this sudden emergency is worthy of emulation, and reflects distinct credit upon himself and the military service.