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 Specialist Fifth Class Siegfried Berling (ASN: US-51545856), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Company C, United States Army Training Center, Fort Jackson, South Carolina, by assisting in saving the life of the swimming accident victim on 7 May 1967. Although having full knowledge of storm warnings and extremely rough water with winds up to 30 mph, Specialist Berling, seeing that the victim was floundering, immediately ran to the waters edge and swam out to help two other men in a rescue attempt. Upon reaching the trio, Specialist Berling relieved one of the rescuers by placing his hand under the chin of the victim and began swimming toward shore. Specialist Berling was repeatedly drawn under the water and only after swallowing a quantity of water, succeeded in bringing the victim close to shore. At this very moment a large wave churned the two men so violently that they were separated. Specialist Berling, not knowing where the victim was, once again, without hesitation and being completely exhausted, returned to deep water only to see the victim floating face down in the water near the shore. As quickly as he could, Specialist Berling swam to the victim, pulled him from the water and immediately administered first aid for about 20 minutes. In so doing, Specialist Berling revive the victim. Specialist Berling’s quick thinking, good judgment and complete disregard for his own life, reflects great credit upon himself, this command, and the United States Army.