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 Fifth Class Durward L. Bloom, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a of member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, United States Army Alaska Aviation Battalion, on 6 April 1963, at Portage Glacier, Alaska. While on an outing at Portage Lake, Specialist Bloom saw two small girls and an adult fall through a soft spot in the ice and submerge into the freezing waters of the lake. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, and knowing that the ice might not support him, he unhesitatingly went to their aid. While he was sliding up to the spot where the children were submerged, the ice gave way and he fell into the freezing water. Despite the hazardous condition, Specialist Bloom located the little girls and lifted them out of the water to a place of safety. Then by throwing his coat out to the man, and using it as a tow, he succeeded in pulling him out of the icy lake. Specialist Bloom’s heroic action is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.