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 First Lieutenant (Army Nurse Corps) Joseph E. Huchko (ASN: MN-5251193), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed enemy in the Republic of Vietnam: First Lieutenant Huchko distinguished himself by valorous actions on 3 December 1968 as a surgical nurse at the 67th Evacuation Hospital in Qui Nhon. Informed that a patient was being brought in with a live M-79 grenade lodged in his head, Lieutenant Huchko, with complete disregard for his safety, volunteered to assist in the removal of the grenade. Throughout the operation, which conducted in a sandbagged area outside the casualty receiving section, he provided invaluable assistance to the surgeon by handing him the needed instruments and by holding lights so that he could see to operate. Although afforded some protection by body armor, Lieutenant Huchko’s face and arms were continuously exposed to the possibility of an explosion. His efforts contributed significantly to the success of the operation. First Lieutenant Huchko’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.