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 Robert M. Hanson, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Company C, 553rd Engineer Battalion (Construction), in Orleans, France, on 2 April 1964. Specialist Hanson was visiting in Orleans when he heard an emergency siren and saw a person floating in the swift and muddy waters of the Loire River which was at flood stage. He rushed to the bank of the river, and upon noticing the rescue squad’s delay in rescuing the individual, he completely disregarded his own personal safety and although not an experienced swimmer, plunged into the river and managed to pull a French woman to the safety of the shore. Although he modestly and quietly left the scene after his act of bravery without making his identity known, he was later identified and accorded most favorable publicity by the French press which significantly enhanced the prestige of the American soldier in France. Specialist Hanson’s prompt and heroic conduct in this emergency is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.