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 Specialist Fourth Class Kenneth G. Cole (ASN: RA-18826209), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while serving with the 189th Aviation Company on 23 September 1968. Specialist Fourth Class Cole distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a technical observer aboard a helicopter when another helicopter crashed and burned nearby. The ship in which he was flying arrived on the crash scene a scant few moments after the accident. With complete disregard for his own safety, he plunged into the flaming wreckage and extricated one of the crew members. After placing him aboard the waiting aircraft, Specialist Cole re-entered the burning ship and returned with another critically injured man. His ship evacuated the men to the nearest medical facility. His 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.