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 Sergeant First Class Sammy R. Hurst, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the Security Division, G-2, Headquarters, United States Army, Pacific, Fort Shafter, Hawaii, on 18 June 1966. With complete and apparent disregard for his own personal safety and life, Sergeant Hurst successfully swam a distance of over two miles through turbulent surf and over dangerous coral reefs in order to summon assistance to rescue his son and two fellow sergeants who were clinging precariously to an overturned boat in which all had been fishing. As a direct result of Sergeant First Class Hurst’s valiant effort, subsequent rescue action was accomplished in a timely manner by a Coast Guard Patrol boat. Sergeant First Class Hurst’s demonstrated willingness to risk his own life to save the lives of other reflects great credit upon his moral courage and determination. This action was in the highest tradition of the United States Army.