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 Technician Fifth Grade [then Private First Class] John P. Gutermuth (ASN: 35709239), United States Army, for heroism at Bavao River, Mindanao, Philippine Islands, on 7 May 1945. While boating in the river, Technician Fifth Grade Gutermuth saw a soldier lose his footing and fall into the water. When he came to the surface he was struggling and gasping for air. It was evident that he could not swim with the waterlogged equipment and rifle, which was still hanging on his shoulder. Technician Fifth Grade Gutermuth, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, swam to his aid and helped him toward a small piece of rope which was dangling from a bridge brace. He then held the unidentified soldier above the water, and with the aid of the rope was able to raise him to a place of safety. By his coolness, quick thinking, and risking of his own life in saving the life of a comrade, Technician Fifth Grade Gutermuth upholds the highest traditions of the military service and his action reflect great credit upon himself, and serve as an admirable example to the men of his company.