The Republic of Vietnam Lifesaving Medal honors military members and personnel who demonstrated noteworthy valor in rescuing Vietnamese citizens, typically entailing risk of life or personal injury.
The former Republic of South Vietnam created a series of awards to honor military members and civilians who carried out service on behalf of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War and related operations between 1949 and 1974. As the nation no longer exists, the awards are considered obsolete.
The medal is white and in the shape of a cross with a smaller red cross at the center. The ribbon is red and is bisected by a vertical white stripe; a thin white stripe appears toward each edge.