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 (Infantry) William A. Anderson (ASN: 0-366524), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States while serving with the 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, at Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on 19 March 1944. When three men had been seriously injured and were lying in a thickly-sown minefield which First Lieutenant Anderson had laid, he guided a party to their rescue. The mission was extremely hazardous because fallen trees and debris resulting from heavy artillery fire had completely obliterated all minefield markers and the network of trip wires. The forward location of the field also subjected the party to imminent danger of enemy attack. Exhibiting exceptional skill and great personal courage, First Lieutenant Anderson guided the group safely through the minefield to the injured men and effected their rescue. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by First Lieutenant Anderson reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.