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 First Lieutenant (Field Artillery), [then Second Lieutenant] Juan A. Torres-Gorbea, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Battery A, 6th Howitzer Battalion, 28th Artillery (105-mm. Towed), on 24 November 1963, at Salinas Training Area, Puerto Rico. When Lieutenant Torres-Gorbea saw a mess steward panic and run after being splashed by flaming gasoline from a field range, he unhesitatingly rushed to the rescue of the burning man. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he threw himself upon the blazing man, rolled him on the ground, and extinguished the flames with his bare hands. By his sound judgment and disregard for the burns on his own hands sustained during his prompt and brave actions, he prevented more severe injuries and possible death to the soldier. Lieutenant Torres-Gorbea’s heroic conduct in this emergency is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself in the military service.