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 Corporal [then Private First Class] Peter Sawka, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Headquarters and Service Company, 103d Engineer Battalion, 28th Infantry Division, near Ulm, Germany, on 23 June 1953. While operating a crane, in connection with the removal of a steel treadway bridge which crossed the swift, flood-swollen Danube River, he witnessed a powerboat capsize, carrying the boat operator with it in the swift waters below. Observing the victim struggling helplessly in the treacherous current, Corporal Sawka, without hesitation and with complete disregard for his personal safety, leaped from his crane, and fully clothed, plunged into the flood-swollen river to attempt a rescue. Fighting exceptionally strong currents, he swam approximately 300 feet, successfully reached his comrade, who was being swept helplessly down stream, and returned him safely to shore. Corporal Sawka’s Courageous action is in keeping with the highest tradition of the Army and reflects great credit on himself and the military service.