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 Fourth Class Abner W. Willis, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Company D, 2d Airborne Battle Group, 501st Infantry, at Rio Hato, Canal Zone, on 20 February 1959. While participating in Exercise BANYAN TREE and making an approach march along the Rio Foralloncito River, a fellow trooper lost his footing on this slippery bank and fell into the river below. The soldier, a non-swimmer, was unable to hold onto the sheer rock bank and, being swept quickly downstream, faced certain drowning. Without hesitation or regard for his own personal safety and despite the swift current and hazardous conditions involved, Specialist Willis plunged into the river, dove to the bottom and recovered the nearly drowned victim. Specialist Willis’ prompt and courageous actions in risking his life in this sudden emergency saved the life of his fellow soldier, and reflect distinct credit on himself and the military service.