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 Richard E. Hunter, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Company A, 1st Battalion (M), 60th Infantry, 172nd Infantry Brigade (M), Fort Richardson, Alaska, on 7 August 1967. As an assistant to the USARAL Environmental Expert in training infantry troops to proficiently negotiate mountainous, glacial terrain, Specialist Hunter displayed a high degree of personal courage and disregard for his own safety in the successful rescue of two Japanese mountain climbers who had suffered serious injuries while ascending Eklutna Glacier. Left in charge of the seven man party by the USARAL Environmental Expert, who descended to the Eklutna base camp to obtain needed air support, Specialist Hunter carefully coordinated and admirably directed the removal of the two injured climbers from the yawning chasm into which they had fallen. It was largely due to his resourcefulness and mature judgment that the two men were safety removed and comforted during the four and a half hour period preceding their air evacuation. Specialist Hunter’s exemplary performance is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects great credit upon himself and the United States Army. [This award supersedes the Army Commendation Medal awarded to Specialist For Richard E. Hunter for meritorious service on 7 August 1967 as announced in General orders number 176, Headquarters, United States Army, Alaska, APO Seattle 98749, dated 27 November 1967.]