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 Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery) Adalbert E. Toepel, Jr., United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while rescuing a seriously injured aircraft commander from the wreckage of his burning helicopter on 13 February 1969. Colonel Toepel was en route to Sand Island, a remote test site near Apalachicola, Florida, by helicopter when he saw a YCH-47C helicopter crash and exploded flames. Landing his helicopter, he rushed to the burning aircraft. Clearly disregarding his own personal safety, Colonel Toepel crawled under the nose section of the burning helicopter and through a broken lower window to raise the heavy, armored seat. This enabled the semi-conscious aircraft commander to untangle his legs from the controls and slide down through the lower window. Then assisted by a fellow officer, Colonel Toepel removed the aircraft commander from the burning wreckage to the awaiting evacuation helicopter. Colonel Toepel’s act of heroism is in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army. He voluntarily risked his life so that another may live. His actions reflect great credit upon him and the United States Army.