The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Private First Class John A. Reel, United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed enemy on 22 December 1969 while serving as a tank crewman with Company D, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date Private Reel spotted a mentally disturbed soldier firing a rifle inside the perimeter at Bien Hoa Army Base. Although unarmed, Private Reel quickly moved behind the bunker where the man had taken cover. When the soldier exposed himself, Private Reel leaped on top of the man, and pinned him to the ground. The soldier struggled to free himself, but Private Reel restrained him until the military police arrived. Private First Class Reel’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.