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 Howard Bennett, United States Army, for heroism in Gaston County, North Carolina on 26 June 1955. While lying on Horse Shoe Beach on the Catawha River Private Bennett heard the screams of a young girl who had been wading in the river and was being swept away by the swiftly flowing water. Private Bennett swam to her aid, and returned her to the bank. Upon learning that her younger sister had been with her Private Bennett unhesitatingly returned to the river and repeatedly swam and dived in an effort to locate the other girl. He was nearing exhaustion but disregarded his own danger and continued his underwater search. Though unsuccessful in this endeavor Private Bennett’s prompt and courageous action reflects great credit on himself and the military service.