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 Major (Chemical Corps) Douthit L. Furches, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the Reserve Officers Training Corps Instructor Group, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, near Clemmons, North Carolina, on 2 July 1953. While fishing in the Yadkin River at the Idols Power Dam, he observed a boy who was swimming in the river nearby caught in the swift current and being helplessly swept toward the power dam intake. Without regard for his personal safety, Major Furches unhesitatingly plunged into the water beyond marked safety limits and quickly proceeded to effect the rescue. He succeeded in reaching the swimmer in the main channel at a point approximately 25 yards from the intake proper. He grasped hold of the boy, lifting him from beneath the surface of the muddy, swift water and returned him safely to shore. Major Furches’ prompt and courageous action undoubtedly saved the life of the distressed swimmer and reflects great credit on himself and the military service.