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 L. McBride (ASN: RA-19631770), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the United States Army Garrison and Technical Services, Antilles, Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico, in rescuing an individual from drowning on 11 March 1962, at Ponta Maldonado, Puerto Rico, While swimming in the safety of near-shore waters, Private McBride noticed that another person swimming in the area was being rapidly carried to sea by a strong undercurrent despite this individual’s ability as a qualified swimmer and his physical efforts to resist the strong tide and rough water. Without hesitation, and despite personal safety and danger of himself being caught by the strong undercurrent and tide, Private McBride plunged into the surf and swam to the aid of the distressed person. He then rendered immediate assistance and exerted extraordinary physical efforts and towed the then exhausted swimmer approximately 100 yards to a point of safety. Private McBride’s heroic act, with complete disregard of his personal safety, consummate courage, and calm demeanor throughout this incident, resulted in the saving of a human life, and reflects the highest credit on himself and the United States Army.