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 Steven Dufford, United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed enemy on 25 March 1970 while serving as a medic with Troop A, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date a mortar round exploded in the tube, mortally wounding three men. Upon hearing the explosions Specialist Dufford immediately ran to the inferno and began administering first-aid to the victims. Disregarding the flying fragments caused by exploding mortar rounds, he continued giving the men first aid and then helped remove them to safety. Specialist Four Dufford’s 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.