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 Sergeant Esser A. David (ASN: 35009521), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States while serving with the 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on 11 May 1943. The explosion of a land mine left by the enemy caused a soldier to be seriously injured and hurled into a creek. Sergeant David, also severely injured by the explosion, affected a rescue with difficulty and immediately rendered first aid to the injured man, this despite his struggles in pain. The life of the soldier was saved by the courage and calmness of Sergeant David. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Sergeant David reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.