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 Staff Sergeant Robert M. Gooding (ASN: RA-21207481), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy in Penang, Malaysia. Staff Sergeant Gooding distinguished himself on the night of 29 May 1968 by rescuing a drowning American soldier from the treacherous waters of the Strait of Malacca. Sergeant Gooding observed the man floundering about fifty yards offshore, dived into the water, swam to the individual, pulled him to shore and administered artificial respiration until he recovered. Staff Sergeant Gooding’s heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.