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 Gilberto Oquendo-Rivera, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy at Fort Polk, Louisiana on 8 September 1969. On that date, Sergeant Oquendo-Rivera performed a heroic act that prevented injury, and possible death to a trainee that he was teaching. Assigned as an instructor in charge of four throwing bays, he moved to each bay ensuring that the proper throwing techniques were employed. After being given the proper instructions for throwing, a trainee became nervous and threw the grenade against the front wall of the bay. The live M-61 fragmentation grenade bounced back to the feet of the stunned trainee. Sergeant Oquendo-Rivera, aware of the trainee’s condition and inexperience, pushed him clear of the area and kicked the grenade into the grenade sump. As both men hit the ground the grenade exploded. Realizing the possibility of death or injury to himself, Sergeant Oquendo-Rivera acted in a heroic manner by placing the safety of the trainee and performance of duty above regard for his personal safety. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, in the dedication of his service to his country, Sergeant Oquendo-Rivera has reflected great credit upon himself and states Army.