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 Lieutenant Colonel (Corps of Engineers) Edward M. Willis, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 10 April 1969 at Bradley Lending, Benning, Georgia. At approximate 1450 hours on 10 April 1969, Colonel Willis, while observing a river crossing rehearsal exercise, responded in an heroic manner to an accident in which his Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) sank to the bottom of the Chattahoochee River with two persons aboard. Colonel Willis, with utter disregard for his own personal safety or protection, risked his life in the swift current and ice cold water of the river in an attempt to free the two inside the APC. Even though Colonel Willis knew that the doors of the APC would be next to impossible to open underwater due to their weight and the surrounding water pressure, he was not deterred in the least. Again and again, Colonel Willis, fighting against the strong undercurrents of the river and the near zero visibility in the muddy water, attempted to free the trapped men, surfacing only long enough to breathe. This act of heroism in this emergency situation was truly outstanding and beyond the call of duty. Colonel Willis’ heroism and genuine concern for the lives of his comrades reflect great credit upon him, his unit, and the United States Army.