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 Captain (Field Artillery) Donald E. Zlotnik, United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States while serving with in the Republic of Vietnam. Captain Zlotnik distinguished himself by heroism involving voluntary risk of life on 4 July 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of a fire support base in the northern part of South Vietnam. A fire broke out in a bunker housing ammunition for the nearby howitzers, and was not detected until it had enveloped the entire structure. Two men attempting to extinguish the flames became trapped in the burning structure. Captain Zlotnik arrived at the scene and saw the projectiles in the bunker glowing brightly from the intense heat. Despite the danger that the howitzer ammunition might explode at any moment, and with complete disregard for his own safety, he unhesitatingly entered the burning bunker to rescue the two men. He extracted both men from the bunker, although both of them had been rendered unconscious by smoke inhalation and had to be revived. Captain Zlotnik then led the fire fighting party. He personally entered the flaming bunker several times to remove smoldering ammunition. He continued to lead the fire fighting team in this heroic manner until the fire was successfully brought under control. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, in the dedication of his service to his country, Captain Zlotnik has reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Army.