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 Robert L. Nicholson, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Company D, 1st Battle Group, 11th Infantry, Fort Benning, Georgia, on 31 May 1961. Sergeant Nicholson was performing duty on Dianda Range as an assistant instructor supervising the training of recruits in the handling of live fragmentation grenades. A trainee undergoing instruction dropped an activated grenade in the rear of the throwing they, endangering the lives of all personnel in that vicinity. Quickly realizing the immediate danger involved, and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Sergeant Nicholson moved to the activated grenade, seized it and, with only moments to spare, tossed it downrange where exploded instantly upon clearing the safety wall. The prompt action, presence of mind and unselfish courage displayed by Sergeant Nicholson in this sudden emergency prevented serious injury or death to personnel, and reflect distinct credit on himself in the military service.