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 Captain (Corps of Engineers) James P. Fero, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 10 November 1964 while serving as an Instructor with the School of Military Engineering Liverpool, New South Wales, Australia. Captain Fero was directing the swamping of a prototype assault boat, as part of a test operation, on the Georges River when he saw an Australian soldier lose his hold on the boat, attempt to inflate a malfunctioning lifejacket, and then sink beneath the surface of the deep river. Without a life preserver and fully clothed, Captain Fero immediately dove into the river in an effort to save the drowning man. Although the victim was held under water by a heavy load of combat gear Captain Fero succeeded in pulling him from the bottom of the river and supporting his head above the water until another instructor swam to the area and assisted in towing the drowning man to the safety of the shore. Captain Fero’s heroic conduct in this emergency situation and profound 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.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Soldier’s Medal to Major (Corps of Engineers) James P. Fero, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy in Hawaii on 15 February 1970. On that date Major Fero rescued an incapacitated fellow scuba diver from possible death in the rough waters off Kahe Point, Oahu, Hawaii. Realizing that his fellow diver was fatigued and being washed by heavy winds and currents toward a cliff, Major Fero, in complete disregard for his own personal safety, swam to his aid and towed him to an exit point over a breakwater, sustaining painful personal entries. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, in the dedication of his service to his country, Major Fero has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.