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 First Class Marvin O. Smith, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the Pathfinder Platoon, Headquarters Company, 82d Airborne Division, on 25 October 1949, at Elgin Field, Florida. When a falling parachutist landed on top and slid down the side of his parachute, Sergeant Smith reached out and seized the suspension lines of the disabled parachute as it fell past him. His parachute having been struck and partly collapsed by his falling comrade, Sergeant Smith, with utter disregard for safety, clung to his comrades parachute and both reached the ground safely. The courageous action and quick thinking of Sergeant Smith saved his comrade from falling to certain death. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Sergeant First Class Smith reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.