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 Major (Armor) Richard H. Phillips (ASN: 0-2309055), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy. Major Phillips distinguished himself by heroic action on 17 February 1969, while serving as a member of Advisory Team 99, United States Army Advisory Group, III Corps Tactical Zone, United States Military Assistance Command, Vietnam. On that date, a Vietnamese recruit inadvertently entered a perimeter minefield and was seriously wounded when he detonated an anti-personnel mine. When the wounded man began having convulsions, Major Phillips entered the minefield and, by using an antenna section as a probe, moved successfully across the treacherous area to rescue and retrieve the badly wounded soldier. His courageous act, at the risk of his own life, was responsible for the saving of the life of the Vietnamese soldier. Major Phillips’ heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.