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 Staff Sergeant Ralph W. Miller, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Headquarters Detachment, United States Army General Depot Activity, United States Forces, on 8 August 1964, near Croix Chapeau, France. While encamped on the bank of the Blavet River, France, Sergeant Miller heard frantic cries for help coming from the river and observed three youths struggling to hold on to a small sailing skiff that had capsized in the swift current of the water. With complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Miller dove into the water, fought a treacherous undercurrent, and swam to the overturned boat. By simultaneously swimming and towing a raft that had been floating near the accident, he succeeded in reaching the shore with two of the teenagers on top of the raft. He then continued his courageous efforts by returning to the river and rescuing the third boy. Sergeant Miller’s prompt actions determination, and heroic conduct in this emergency are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. [This award supersedes the Army Commendation Middle (First Look Leaf Cluster) awarded to Sergeant Miller for heroism on 8 August 1964, as announced in General Orders Number 12, Headquarters U.S. Army Communications Zone Europe, APO U.S. Forces 09058, dated 22 January 1965.]