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 William A. Gaylord, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the 8292d Service Unit, Hawaiian Engineer Depot, on 7 August 1949, at Sandy Beach, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii. Observing a man nearing the rocks, upon which a high surf was breaking, and struggling to escape the strong water currents, Private Gaylord, accompanied by Private Joseph F. Souza, plunged immediately into the water and swam through rough seas and high swells. After several attempts at rescue and after having been repeatedly torn away from the exhausted swimmer by high waves and raging surf, he managed to bring the man to shore. Private Gaylord’s personal courage and quick action in an emergency, at the risk of his life, reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.