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 (Transportation Corps), [then First Lieutenant] Eugene J. Barraro, Jr. (ASN: 0-5023608), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on the evening of 17 February 1968 in Giessen, Germany, while serving as a member of the United States Army Giessen Support Center. Captain Barraro was driving his privately-owned vehicle when he witnessed a hit-and-run accident in which one car went out of control, slammed into a ditch, turned over, and burst into flame. He immediately stopped his vehicle and rushed to the burning car. Two occupants had escaped from the burning automobile, but a third passenger was trapped and injured in the rear seat. Without hesitation or concern for his personal safety, Captain Barraro kicked out a window glass and pulled the injured passenger out of the burning car to safety. Through Captain Barraro’s quick presence of mind, ready courage, and a deep concern for the welfare of others, he risk a hazardous action and prevented a possible loss of life. Captain Barraro’s heroic conduct and prompt action in this emergency situation are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. [This award supersedes award of the Army Commendation Medal for heroism on 17 February 1968 as announced in General Orders Number 89, Headquarters, United States Army Communications Zone Europe, dated 18 May 1968.]