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 Private John W. Skiffington (ASN: 6872139), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy, while serving with Company E, 16th Infantry, in rescuing a man from drowning in the waters of New York Bay, near Governors Island, New York on 13 June 1939. On hearing cries for help from a man floundering in the deep waters of New York Bay about 150 yards from shore, Private Skiffington, with utter disregard of his personal safety, voluntarily plunged into the bay and went to his assistance. After reaching the exhausted and drowning man, Private Skiffington fought his way against a strong ebb tide and towed him with great difficulty to shore, thereby saving his life. The heroism displayed by Private Skiffington on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.