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 William P. Gourley (ASN: RA-53050258), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed hostile force. Staff Sergeant Gourley distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 20 November 1967, near Ban Blech, Republic of Vietnam, while serving as a member of Battery D, 4th Battalion, 60th Artillery. A disabled 2 1/2 ton truck, which he was towing with his 40-mm, M42-A1 Duster, overturned, pinning the two occupants. The driver was killed instantly. A wrecker was called to the scene and was used to partially lift the front of the overturned vehicle. Without hesitation and with complete disregard for his own life, Sergeant Gourley immediately crawled beneath the suspended vehicle and revived the injured soldier by administering mouth to mouth resuscitation. Remaining underneath the vehicle, Sergeant Gourley continued to comfort and tend the injured soldier until he could be moved to safety. Through his outstanding example of courage, Sergeant Gourley saved the life of a fellow soldier at the risk of his own. Sergeant Gourley’s heroic 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.