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 Staff Sergeant Gilbert R. Rangel, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 9 March 1971 at the Andrew Jackson Hand Grenade Range, Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Sergeant Rangel voluntarily risked his life to save a trainee that had accidentally dropped a live fragmentation grenade. Sergeant Rangel’s quick action in forcing the trainee out of the grenade pit, kicking the grenade into the sump, and then jumping on top of the man to shield his body from the blast undoubtedly saved both men from injury. His exemplary behavior sets him apart as a noncommissioned officer of the highest caliber. Sergeant Rangel’s exceptional bravery in voluntarily risking his life so that a fellow soldier might be saved was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect a great credit on him and the United States Army.