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 Keith R. Ball, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy when, at great risk to his own life, he saved the life of a swimming accident victim in treacherous waters off Hapuna Beach, Kona Coast, Island of Hawaii. At 1030 hours on the morning of 14 March 1967, Specialist Ball and his comrades were sunbathing when they heard cries for help. Seeing a man in trouble beyond the breaker-line, Specialist Ball directed his comrades to find some flotation equipment, then immediately swam to the victim’s assistance. Although he knew he would become caught in the same current which had carried the victim away from the shore and thus be unable to return of his own accord, Specialist Ball nevertheless swam to the victim’s side and supported and encouraged him some 35 minutes until help finally arrived. While Specialist Ball was accompanied to the victim initially by one of his comrades, the second man was forced to return and only reached the breaker line with the help of a third man; Specialist Ball was thus forced to fight the current, support the victim and wait the 35 minutes alone. Solely due to his quick courage, his quick reaction, in his total disregard for his own safety did Specialist Ball save the victim’s life. This heroic act averted certain tragedy and reflects greatest credit upon himself, the Army Security Agency, in the United States Army. [This award supersedes the Army Commendation Medal awarded to Specialist Five Ball, for meritorious service on 14 March 1967, as announced in General orders No. 116, Headquarters, United States Army Security Agency, Arlington Station, Virginia, dated 16 December 1967.]