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 First Lieutenant (Air Defense Artillery) Duane S. Hunter, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy in the rescue of two companions following a boating accident near Fort Barry, California, on the morning of 20 January 1971 Lieutenant Hunter, accompanied by two other officers, was participating in an oil spill cleanup and waterfowl rescue following the collision of two oil tankers in San Francisco Bay. The three officers were hurled into the icy waters when an unusually large wave capsized their boat. They began fighting the icy breakers and treacherous currents in an attempt to reach the shore. Lieutenant Hunter struggled to safety, but his companions, encumbered by heavy clothing and severe bodily bruises inflicted by the overturning boat, were unable to overcome the treacherous surf. On seeing their extreme plight, Lieutenant Hunter responded without hesitation and with total disregard for his safety, twice plunging back into the frigid waters to pull his companions to the shore, despite his own exhaustion and numbness. This courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, reflected great credit on him and the United States Army.