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 First Lieutenant (Transportation Corps), [then Private First Class] William P. Wedeking, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy in rescuing a man from drowning at Fort Slocum, New York, on 28 April 1941. Upon being informed that a man was drowning in the bay, Lieutenant Wedeking immediately ran to the scene and, with utter disregard for his safety, jumped into the water, despite the cold and darkness. He located the drowning man and, with great difficulty, succeeded in bringing him safely to shore, thereby saving his life. The heroism displayed on this occasion by Lieutenant Wedeking reflects great credit upon himself and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.