The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pride in presenting the Soldier’s Medal (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Armor) Kurt C. Heady, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while serving as mission commander during a Military Assistance Safety and Traffic medical evacuation flight near North Bend, Washington, on 4 September 1970. On that date Lieutenant Heady voluntarily responded to a request from the Washington State Patrol for a helicopter to evacuate a seriously injured motorist from an accident site located in a narrow valley bordered by 5,000 foot mountains. Disregarding the extremely hazardous flying conditions caused by extreme darkness and adverse weather, Lieutenant Heady twice attempted to locate the injured motorist. During the second attempt, his helicopter crashed, killing the occupants. Lieutenant Heady sacrificed his life attempting to save the life of another individual. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, and dedication of service to his country, Second Lieutenant Heady has reflected great credit on himself and the United States Army.