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 (Corps of Engineers) Gene A. Badal (ASN: 0-1881523), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States while serving with Headquarters and Service Company, (then Company A), 2d Engineer Combat Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, in action on 13 March 1953, in the vicinity of Pogwang Dong, North Korea. On that date, Lieutenant Badal heard that a friendly patrol had been immobilized in an unmarked mine field and that a previous attempt to aid the endangered patrol had resulted in the annihilation of the rescue group. Although under direct enemy observation, he courageously volunteered to enter the mine field and establish a safety lane. Marking his progress with tape, he carefully edged his way to the patrol and assisted in their evacuation. He then began aiding the wounded and refused to leave the danger area until all personnel had been removed to friendly lines. The heroism exhibited by Lieutenant Badal reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.