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 Dan C. Branscum, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy at Fort Ord, California, on 8 June 1971. On that date a soldier dropped a grenade while attempting to pull the safety pin. Lieutenant Branscum and the young soldier both dove to retrieve the activated grenade in an attempt to get it out of the pit before it could explode. In the scramble, the grenade was flipped into the air above the throwing bay. Leaping up, Lieutenant Branscum batted the grenade over the safety wall and then pushed the soldier to safety on the bay floor. The grenade barely cleared the safety wall when it exploded. Lieutenant Branscum’s quick thinking, decisive actions, and complete disregard for his personal safety saved the soldier’s life. By his courageous action, humanitarian regard for his fellow man, and dedication of service to his country, Second Lieutenant Branscum has reflected great credit on himself and the United States Army.