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 Staff Sergeant Gene E. Wagner (ASN: RA-17521909), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while serving as Army Recruiter, Albuquerque, New Mexico, Recruiting Station, United States Army Recruiting Main Station, Amarillo, Texas, on the afternoon of 18 July 1968. En route from Moriarty, Sergeant Wagner witnessed a collision between two trucks. He immediately parked his vehicle and rushed to the burning cab of the first truck where he tried to open both the left and right doors for the purpose of rescuing the occupant who was pinned inside, injured, and unable to help himself. Upon finding the doors jammed he exhibited decisive action, dauntless courage, unusual heroism, and a disregard for his own safety by jumping on the side of the truck, kicking out a window, and pulling the driver to safety as the flames engulfed the truck cab. Manifesting the precepts of conduct most cherished by mankind, Sergeant Wagner endangered his life to save the life of another. Sergeant Wagner’s conspicuous bravery was beyond the call of duty, is in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army, and reflects great credit upon himself and that military service.