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 Private First Class Jerome R. Egan (ASN: US-56564863), United States Army, for heroism not involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 12 November 1968 while serving as a medical aidman with Troop C, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date at the base camp of the 101st Airborne Division at Bien Hoa, a tank in Company D of the “Blackhorse” regiment burst into flames due to a leak in the fuel line. All members of the crew safely evacuated the tank with the exception of the driver who was trapped and rendered unconscious due to the lack of oxygen. Private Egan, realizing that the tank was being engulfed in flames, ran to the burning vehicle without regard for his personal safety and mounted it in order to reach the driver. Aware that the tank might explode at any moment, Private Egan frantically fought his way through the dense smoke and intense heat, quickly freed his comrade and carried him from the flaming vehicle. After he had moved him a safe distance from the burning tank, Private Egan immediately administered first aid. Private First Class Egan’s courageous action and deep concern for the life of his comrade were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.