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 James W. Launderbaugh (ASN: RA-15761686), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on the afternoon of 13 January 1968, when he risked his own life to save the lives of three elderly Germans who had fallen through the ice on a lake in West Berlin, Germany, and were in grave danger of drowning. Hearing the cries for help and seeing that there were people in trouble, he immediately rushed to their aid. Recognizing the danger of the ice cracking still further, and without regard for his own safety, Specialist Launderbaugh stretched out on the ice and quickly pulled the frantic victims from the icy waters. His use in the proper techniques in approaching the victims on the weakened ice avoided compounding the danger. His quick action, judgment, courage, and disregard for his own safety made possible the rescue of the three elderly persons. This action reflects great credit upon himself and is in keeping with the finest traditions of the United States Army. [This award supersedes the Army Commendation Medal awarded to Specialist Four James W. Launderbaugh for her was among 13 January 1968, as announced in general order number 33, Headquarters, United States Army Security Agency, dated 26 April 1968.]