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 Carlos H. Rivera Martino, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Company E ,2d Airborne Battle Group, 501st Infantry, on 7 February 1963 at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. While executing his first parachute jump with an airborne unit, Private Rivera Martino suddenly noticed that a descending parachutist with a malfunctioning chute was being propelled directly toward him. As the falling trooper hurtled into his suspension lines, Private Rivera Martino ignored his own personal safety, instantaneously reached out, grabbed the unopened portion of the chute, and tenaciously held onto it. During the dangerous descent, he maintained a firm grip on his fellow soldier until both of them came in safe contact with the ground. The quick thinking, rapid action, and exemplary conduct displayed by Private Rivera Martino in this emergency reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.