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 Private First Class David G. Nau (ASN: US-52663382), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed hostile force: Private First Class Nau distinguished himself by outstanding heroic service on 20 November 1967, while serving as an M-42 crew member with Battery A, 4th Battalion, 60th Artillery. An M-42 to the front of Private Nau struck a mine and immediately burst into flame, endangering all present due to the full load of ammunition and 140 gallons of gasoline aboard. Private Nau, with complete disregard for his personal safety, boarded the blazing M-42 to fight the fire with an extinguisher, even though the crew shouted a warning that the ammunition and gasoline might explode. He courageously continued to battle the blaze until the extinguisher was exhausted. He then continued his effort to save the burning M-42 by throwing ammunition and burning material to the ground with his bare hands. When the fire was extinguished, Private Nau immediately began to prepare the damaged M-42 for the trip back through hostile territory to the base camp. His display of bravery and unquestionable loyalty enabled him to single-handedly save a valuable piece of equipment from total destruction and the five crew members from further injury or possible death. Private Nau’s initiative, unfaltering courage and professional knowledge are in the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.