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 Jose Garza, Jr., United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy by preventing serious injury and possible death of a fellow soldier. On 16 October 1970, Sergeant Garza was acting as Safety NCO on a transport aircraft participating in training for USARSO Jumpmaster Course 2-71, near Gatun Drop Zone, Canal Zone. Sergeant Garza, with complete disregard for his own safety, rushed to aid a student jumper whose reserve parachute had deployed while the student was still in the aircraft. Unable to overcome the tremendous drag of the deployed parachute, Sergeant Garza did successfully prevent the reserve parachute from becoming entangled in the tail section of the aircraft and gained time to allow the student to make an exit from the aircraft without serious injury. This quick and selfless action undoubtedly prevented serious injury to the student jumpmaster. Sergeant Garza’s his actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on him and the United States Army.