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 Paul L. Esbrandt, United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed enemy on 25 March 1970 while serving as a Medic with Troop A, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date a mortar round exploded in the tube of a mortar, mortally wounding the three man crew. Upon hearing the explosions Specialist Esbrandt ran to the burning holocaust and proceeded to give first aid to the injured soldiers. With the fragments and flames becoming an even greater danger, Specialist Esbrandt helped carry the wounded to safety. Specialist Four Esbrandt’s actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.