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 Clifford J. Knappenberger (ASN: RA-33772380), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy by selflessly imperiling his own safety in saving a young girl from drowning. On 15 June 1945, Sergeant Knappenberger, while inspecting his guard, heard a call for help from a young girl who was swimming in a winter harbor 100 yards distance from his boat. Without hesitation Sergeant Knappenberger started running toward the lagoon. He swam out toward the girl in distress. After going twenty-five yards, he noticed that she had gone under the water once and then came to the surface again. He increased his speed and reached her in time to prevent her from sinking again. The girl struggled and grasped Sergeant Knappenberger around the neck. Sergeant Knappenberger remained calm and succeeded in bringing girl safely to shore. He then gave her artificial respiration and revived her. Sergeant Knappenberger’s heroic action reflects the utmost credit upon himself and the military service.