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 First Class Charles V. Elrod, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 26 March 1971, while assigned to the United States Army Advisor Group (National Guard), Alaska, with station in Juneau, Alaska. Sergeant Elrod distinguished himself by saving the life of a 16-year-old youth who was in danger of drowning. With complete disregard for his life, he jumped into the icy water of Gastineau Channel, completely clothed, and rescued the drowning boy. The youth, who could not swim, had jumped into the water in an attempt to rescue his six-year-old sister, who had fallen off the dock. After the youth had been safely brought to the dock by Sergeant Elrod, he pulled his clothes off and again jumped into the freezing water to search for the little girl. He continuously dove for the girl, remaining in the water for about five minutes, until he saw a boat approaching with the girl aboard. When he came out of the water, his feet and other parts of his body were completely numb. Sergeant Elrod’s heroic action reflected great credit on him, the United States Army Alaska, and the United States Army.