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 Specialist Fourth Class [then Private First Class] Michael F. Penn (ASN: RA-18958212), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed enemy in the Republic of Vietnam: Specialist Four (then Private First Class) Penn distinguished himself by valorous actions on the evening of 3 December 1968 as an operating room technician at the 67th Evacuation Hospital in Qui Nhon. Informed that a patient was being delivered to the hospital with a live M-79 grenade lodged in his head, Specialist Penn, with complete disregard for his own safety, volunteered to assist in the operation. Throughout the operation, which conducted in a sandbagged area outside the casualty receiving section, he provided invaluable assistance by holding lights so the surgeon could see to operate. Although afforded some protection by body armor, Specialist Penn’s face and arms were continuously exposed to the possibility of an explosion. His efforts contributed significantly to the success of the operation. Specialist Four Penn’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.