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 Fourth Class Joseph E. Mahan, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy at Hapuna Beach, Kona Coast, Island of Hawaii, when he voluntarily risked his life to save two other men. At 1030 hours on the morning of 14 March 1967, Specialist Mahan and his comrades heard cries for help as they sun-bathed on the beach. While two of his comrades swam to the stranded man’s assistance, Specialist Mahan and the remaining men searched the beach for flotation equipment. Finding none, they ran to the nearby hotel, procured several picnic type tables, carried them to the beach, removed the legs and attempted to float them to the stranded man and the only enlisted man who had reached him. Repeatedly, for a period of 20 minutes, attempts were made to breach the breaker-line with the tabletops. Specialist Mahan and another comrade succeeded, but the comrade was so exhausted in the attempt he was forced to return to shore. Specialist Mahan was left alone in treacherous water, high waves and unpredictable currents, knowing full well that if he did not reach his comrade and the stranded man, both of them would drown. He also knew that, should a wave rip the tabletop from his grip, he too would be stranded and very much in danger of drowning. Through sheer resolve and personal courage, Specialist Mahan reached the stranded swimmer and his comrade, placed the former on the tabletop and returned to shore. The resourcefulness, courage and determination of Specialist Mahan as well as his total disregard for his own safety, reflect great credit upon himself the United States Army. [This award supersedes the Army Commendation Medal awarded to Specialist Four Joseph Mahan for meritorious service on 14 March 1967 as announced in General Orders Number 116, headquarters, United States Army Security Agency, Arlington Station, Virginia, dated 16 December 1967.]