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 William E. Koski (ASN: 32369304), United States Army, for heroism in connection with military operations not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in Luxembourg on 3 January 1945. While on a bridge reconnaissance mission Staff Sergeant Koski, accompanied by an officer, proceeded to make accurate measurements and sketches of the blown bridges near a town. While Staff Sergeant Koski sketched the bridge, the officer started across the frozen rifer. At mid-river, however, the officer fell through the ice and immediately sank from sight. With no facilities for assistance, Staff Sergeant Koski quickly descended the steep banks, and without regard for his personal safety, advanced across the ice and skillfully succeeded in rescuing his officer from the icy waters of the river. With not assistance, Staff Sergeant Koski carried the officer to their nearby vehicle and drove him to a command post in town. He then voluntarily provided his own dry combat suit and sweater so that the officer could be comfortable. The courage and alertness displayed by Staff Sergeant Koski reflect the highest credit upon himself and upon the armed forces of the United States.