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 First Class Roland E. Burley, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Company E, 31st Infantry Regiment, on a beach party at Ishikali Beach, Hokkaido, Japan, on 17 July 1949. Upon hearing cries of distress from a group of Japanese nationals who were swimming, Private Burley, with four of his companions, plunged into the sea. With complete disregard for safety, he fought through 100 yards of trough sea and heavy breakers and succeeded in bringing one of the Japanese safely to shore. The heroism and quick thinking displayed by Private burley reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.