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 Captain (Infantry) Lewis J. Geneseo, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 17 and 18 April 1969, during and airborne infiltration into the White Mountains National Forest of New Hampshire, conducted in conjunction with the 10th Special Forces Group operational readiness test. Captain Geneseo, officer in charge of the drop zone, distinguished himself by saving the life of a fellow Special Forces soldier who was participating in the night parachute drop. The soldier landed away from the drop zone into the Israel River, swollen to near flood stage by heavy rains and melting snow. The paratrooper’s cries of distress were heard by Captain Geneseo and his medic. Captain Geneseo with complete disregard for his own life and safety, plunged into the torrential waters and was swept downstream by the extremely swift current. He reached the far bank and tied a rope around his waist. He again jumped into raging current and proceeded upstream toward the paratrooper who was by this time hanging on to some expose branches and debris. This time Captain Geneseo successfully reached the stranded paratrooper and, with the assistance of his medic, began cutting loosely entangled suspension lines of the parachute which was dragging him down into the icy water. With the assistance of several others on shore, Captain Geneseo and his medic successfully pulled the paratrooper to shore and safety. Captain Geneseo’s actions were in keeping with the finest traditions of the United States Army. His heroism and bravery reflect great credit upon him, his unit, Fort Devens and the United States Army.