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 Larry K. Abel, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the 534th Military Police Company (Service), Fort Clayton, Canal Zone, on 28 July 1964, at Venado Beach, Fort Kobbbe, Canal Zone. While in the company of two other members of a Military Police Patrol, Private Abel observed the exit of a parachute from an aircraft over a drop zone and then saw the wind carry the airman into the ocean. As the parachutist signaled for assistance, Private Abel responded immediately to the airman who was being dragged down into the water and further out to sea by his partially collapsed parachute. With complete disregard for his own safety, he plunged into shark infested waters of unknown depth to reach the stricken parachutist. Upon reaching the drowning man, he and another Military Policeman attempted to hold the parachutist head above the water while coping with the drag of the parachute and hazardous conditions. Despite the threat of being pulled under by the wet parachute, he ignored the danger to himself, held on to the unconscious victim, and succeeded in towing him to shore. Private Abel’s fortitude, perseverance, and a roller conduct are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself in the military service. [This award supersedes the award of the Army Commendation Medal to Private Abel for meritorious achievement on 28 July 1964 as announced in General Orders Number 134, Headquarters United States Army Forces Southern Command, Fort Amador, Canal Zone, dated 24 December 1964.]