The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 2 July 1926, has awarded the SOLDIER’S MEDAL to
CADET THOMAS M. SURDYKE
B COMPANY, 4TH REGIMENT, UNITED STATES CORPS OF CADETS
FOR HEROISM: On 24 June 2016, Cadet Thomas Surdyke, United States Military Academy, distinguished himself by heroic actions as a Cadet assigned to Company Bravo, Fourth Regiment, United States Corps of Cadets, United States Military Academy. Cadet Surdyke and a civilian who could barely swim were swept out in the ocean by a rip tide current. Without regard for his own safety, Cadet Surdyke immediately grabbed the civilian and physically assisted in keeping the civilian’s head above water until help could arrive. Before becoming overcome by exhaustion, Cadet Surdyke managed to push the civilian up, enabling a bystander on a paddle board to pull him out of the water, thereby saving the civilian’s life. As a result of Cadet Surdyke’s courageous actions, he lost his life. Without his selfless act, the Civilian would not have survived. The selflessness and courage displayed that afternoon by Cadet Surdyke embodies the values of Duty, Honor, Country and is an example to be emulated by all. Cadet Surdyke’s heroic actions are in keeping with the finest tradition of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the United States Military Academy and the United States Army.
Click the icon above to view photos of the presentation of Cadet Thomas Surdyke's Soldier's Medal, the highest peactime award for valor.
The Cadet Thomas Michael Surdyke Memorial Foundation was founded to honor Tom's memory and help inspire and develop young leaders of character. Please support our mission at www.cadettom.com.
| Newest Posts |