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 Nicholas H. Niles, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Company A, United states Army Language School, Presidio of Monterey, California, at Carmel Beach, California on 5 February 1961. While engaged in recreational activity on the beach, Private Niles heard a call for help, and saw a person struggling in the heavy surf approximately 100 yards offshore. Despite the fact that he was aware of the powerful and treacherous waves, Private Niles, together with two comrades, unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, plunged into the chilling waters and swam out against the strong current in an effort to save the drowning man. Upon reaching the victim and realizing the hopelessness of bringing him ashore through the swiftly moving surf, Private Niles and another of his fellow rescuers swam back to shore for additional help. Numbed by the cold water and completely exhausted by the turbulent undertow, he finally managed to reach the shore, where he immediately informed other arriving rescuers of the location of the two men who were being swept quickly out to sea. The courageous and unselfish heroism which Private Niles displayed by assisting in this dangerous emergency is in the most cherished traditions of the United States Army, and reflects the utmost credit upon himself and the military service.