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 Grant Warren Spofford (ASN: 36214177), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States as a member of Company B, 215th Coast Artillery, in Alaska on 13 August 1942, in rescuing a soldier from drowning. After transferring supplies from a “J” boat to the dory in order to make a landing, a member of the organization attempted to step from the “J” boat to the dory, but lost his balance as a swell moved the boat and he fell into the sea with full field equipment. During his struggles to remain on the surface, the strong current had carried him some twelve to fifteen feet away and it was apparent he would never reach the boat without aid. Private Spofford realized the seriousness of the situation, stripped off part of his equipment, plunged into the cold water, and with great difficulty rescued the soldier in distress and succeeded in keeping him afloat until the “J” boat could be maneuvered to pick them up. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the Military Forces of the United States.