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 Warrant Officer One (W-1) Kenneth W. Bastion (ASN: W-2217687), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States. Warrant Officer Bastion distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 26 December 1967 at Phu Cat Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, while serving as a member of Service Battery, 7th Battalion, 13th Artillery. Upon observing a CH-47 helicopter crash on landing, Warrant Officer Bastion rushed to the scene of the crash. Despite the great danger caused by leaking aviation fuel and a burning engine, he climbed inside the crashed aircraft, thereby covering his own clothing with highly flammable aviation fuel, and assisted in the removal of injured personnel. After the removal of all the seriously injured, Warrant Officer Bastion, still at the risk of his life, remained in the immediate vicinity of the aircraft assisting medical personnel in evacuation of the injured. Warrant Officer Bastion’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.