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 Specialist Third Class Howard G. Kuni, United States Army, for heroism near man Manteca, California on 28 December 1955. During the height of the flood in northern California the helicopter which Specialist Kuni was crew chief, was called upon to rescue a man who was marooned on a small plot of ground. Upon arriving at the scene the helicopter hovered low over the water but could not get close to the island because of trees. The man was dazed and exhausted from eight days of exposure and unable to help himself or understand instructions being shouted to him from the helicopter. The swift and turbulent water was rapidly washing away what little high ground was left. Though darkness was fast closing in and the water was deep, icy cold, and full of debris, Specialist Kuni voluntarily plunged into the stream in the full knowledge that if he was swept away his own rescue was impossible. He reached the stranded man and started back. The victim was so weak and helpless Specialist Kuni had to hold him afloat while swimming through the swift current and succeeded in getting back to the helicopter and into the cabin. The courageous action and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Specialist Kuni reflect great credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.