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 Donnie G. Blankenship, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Battery A, 1st Battalion, 9th Artillery, 3d Infantry Division, on 14 July 1964, near Kitzingen, Germany. Private Blankenship was sitting on the bank of the Main River when he noticed a large group of bystanders observing a man struggling in the water approximately 30 meters from the shore. With full knowledge of his own limitations as a swimmer and with complete disregard for his own safety, Private Blankenship unhesitatingly plunged into the river to aid the stricken man. Ignoring the dangerous conditions of the river in which locks opened causing a flood stage, he swam to the area where the victim submerged, dove to the bottom of the river, and succeeded in locating him. After towing the victim to the safety of the shore, he continued his unselfish efforts by administering artificial respiration which revived the unconscious man. Private Blankenship’s heroic conduct, prompt actions, and deep concern for his fellow man are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. [This award supersedes the award of the Army Commendation Medal to Private Blankenship for heroism on 14 July 1964 as announced in General Orders Number 176, Headquarters 3d Infantry Division, APO 36, US Forces, dated 29 October 1964.]