Army Ranger instructor credited with water rescue

[Ranger]

Army Ranger instructor credited with water rescue

Staff Sgt. Nickolas Clarke, an Army Ranger instructor with the 6th Ranger Training Battalion at Eglin Air Force Base, was at the beach showing his mother-in-law around when he noticed a swimmer in distress. He said he just reacted, rescuing the man and a second person.
READ MORE: http://www.nwfdailynews.com/military/to ... e-1.385236

[Jim]

Has he been recommended for the Soldiers Medal?

[al_2ndWolfhounds]

Has he been recommended for the Soldiers Medal?

"The Soldier's Medal is awarded to any individual whom while serving in the Armed Forces of the United States, or any citizen of a friendly foreign nation that while working with the United States Army, is recognized by heroism not concerning direct encounter with an enemy. A degree of valor as required for the award of Distinguished Flying Cross is required for the awarding of the Soldier's Medal. The act justifying the award of the medal must have entailed a personal risk or hazard and the personal choice of a risk of their life under condition not concerning direct encounter with an enemy. Simply saving a life will not be basis for the award."

I served with someone who was awarded the Soldiers Medal for repeatedly entering a burning building to rescue several soldiers that had passed out. I also served with two others that at different times had been awarded an ARCOM for rescuing others when the rescue was not considered as hazardous.

Given the fact that he had to rescue one and then go out again and rescue the original victim knowing that there was a rip current he should be considered due to the personal risk of life.

[rangerjd]

I agree, going out once is heroic enough, but going back out a second time, in a rip tide, deserves some higher recognition.

[Jim]

I agree, going out once is heroic enough, but going back out a second time, in a rip tide, deserves some higher recognition.

Agreed. Recall, the Soldiers Medal is worn ahead of the Bronze Star. Serious award.