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 Norman D. Porter (ASN: 20424342), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States. At Morotai Island, Netherlands East Indies on 20 January 1945. When his commanding officer was being swept out to sea by a strong undertow and was in danger of drowning, Staff Sergeant Porter voluntarily and at the risk of his life entered the high waves and swam through an extremely rough sea to his aid. After reaching the distressed officer, battling with the undertow, Staff Sergeant Porter realized that he was making no headway, so he called for help keeping the officer afloat until a DUKW could reach them. This act reflects great credit upon Sergeant Porter and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.