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 Major (Infantry) Forrest V. Graves, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy at Goose Bayou, Lafittte, Louisiana, on 5 June 1970. On that date a man jumped into the bayou to save the life of his own daughter but was unable to swim. He began shouting for help and by the time Major Grays reached him he was floating limp about 2 feet under the surface. This activity occurred in a section of the bayou that is quite deep and noted for its strong undercurrents which have claimed several lives over the years. Major Grays was aware of the dangerous situation but went to the stranger’s rescue with complete disregard for his own safety. He was able to hold the drowning man up out of the water until he could catch his breath, and then he swam with him to the piling of a bridge some 40 or 50 yards downstream. A boat from across the bayou arrived on the scene to pick up both men as Major Grays prepared to swim with the non-swimmer back to shore. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, in the dedication of his service to his country, Major Graves has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.