West Point cadet from St. Louis dies after trying save someone from drowning

The reason I mentioned the Army Soldier's Medal is because the Navy and Marine Corps Medal is given for a non-combat situation where someone has risked their life to save another, and is the service equivalent. I sat on many awards boards over the years, and chaired the 9/11 Navy board. The litmus test is if someone is drowning, and the rescuer throws them a life ring, that's a letter of appreciation or a Navy or MC Achievement Medal. If they jump into a dangerous croc-infested river, that's a different level of self-risk.

I grieve for the family, and my only thought in bringing this up was to hope the Army considers some recognition for the family to build a proud though heart-breaking memory around.
 
Capt MJ said:
Do my Army friends know if the Soldier's Medal would be posthumously awarded for a case like this? Small consolation for devastated family, but something to recognize his bravery for long-term family memory.
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'Tom Surdyke will be awarded the Soldier's Medal for his bravery in saving the swimmer. It's for Heroism that does not involve actual conflict with an enemy.'
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