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 Captain (Air Corps) Harold H. Macurdy (ASN: 0-673400), United States Army Air Forces, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy, while serving with the 36th Fighter Group, on 12 March 1947, at Borinquen Field Beach, Puerto Rico, where he and several other men were swimming. An officer, carried out to sea by the very strong undertow, became weak and called for help. Captain Macurdy, swimming through the treacherous waters with several of the others, finally reached the stricken man. By sheer courage and strength, he alone was able to stay with the officer and, unable to buck the undertow, swam parallel to the shore to prevent the two from being carried out to sea. Finally, seeing boulders that extended into the water, he successfully propelled to the protection of the rocks. Exhausted by the extent of his physical efforts, Captain Macurdy, in saving his comrade, demonstrated courage that reflects great credit on himself and the military service.