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 First Class Franklin E. Ross, United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States 20 December 1943. While two soldiers were swimming in the surf, a large wave struck one of the men, carrying him into deep water. Seeing the struggles of the man in the undertow, Private First Class Ross swam through the rough water to his assistance and held him above the surface. After he started back to shore, a boat was put out to them. The rescued soldier died after reaching the shore.