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 Second Lieutenant (Quartermaster Corps) Walter L. Pamplin, Jr., United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy in Recreation Bay at Seward, Alaska on 25 July 1970. On that date, a 17 foot Army outboard motor boat, from which Lieutenant Pamplin and two fellow officers were fishing, began taking on water for no apparent reason. Lieutenant Pamplin, knowing the boat was going to sink, immediately took charge of the boat and ordered the life raft inflated. As the boat began to overturn, the boat operator, who couldn’t swim, jumped from the boat into the water. With total disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Pamplin threw off his own lifejacket and dove in after him. He then brought the victim, who was struggling, to the raft. Noticing that one of the officers was pinned under the sinking boat, Lieutenant Pamplin again exhausted himself by valiantly swimming to save his fellow officer. After bringing his companion to the raft, he found the raft losing air and sinking rapidly. Again he took charge of the situation and calmed the panic stricken group of men. With the water an icy 38 degrees, and his comrades giving almost no assistance, he guided the sinking raft 500 yards through rough, choppy water to shore. After reaching the shore, Lieutenant Pamplin quickly administered first aid to one of his fellow officers and to the boat operator, who were in shock. Then he began signaling for help. All of the sudden the other officer passed out and fell to the ground. Lieutenant Pamplin immediately ran to his side and revived his unconscious companion. After ensuring his comfort and safety, he again began signaling for help. Ignoring his own condition of total exhaustion, he remained in control until help arrived. Throughout the whole period he worked unceasingly, continuously placing the safety of his companions above his own. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, and the dedication of the service to his country, Lieutenant Pamplin has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.