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 Specialist Fourth Class Walter B. Perkins (ASN: RA-17539659), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Combat Support Company, 1st Battle Group, 7th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division, on 24 September 1961, in Korea. While boating on the Yong-ju Gol reservoir Specialist Perkins sighted a young Korean girl struggling in deep waters approximately seventy-five yards offshore. Displaying remarkable composure and complete disregard for his own safety he plunged into the waters fully clothed and swam to her aid. The girl panicked as Specialist Perkins attempted to secure a hold on her. In the ensuing struggle she pulled Specialist Perkins under water and fought off his attempts to rescue her. Despite this vigorous resistance Specialist Perkins managed to free himself and calm the girl. As he towed her towards shore a boy in a small boat rowed out to meet them. Specialist Perkins assisted in placing the victim in the boat. Realizing that this small craft would sink if overloaded by his weight Specialist Perkins, although exhausted, swam to the shore without assistance. Specialist Perkins’ alertness, prompt action and disregard of his personal safety in this emergency reflect great credit on himself and are in the highest traditions of the military service. (This award supersedes so much of General Orders Number 144, Headquarters 1st Cavalry Division, dated 3 November 1961, as pertains to previous award of the Army Commendation Medal to Specialist Perkins for meritorious achievement on 24 September 1961.)