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 Willie G. Ford, United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed enemy force on 25 June 1970 while serving as a mechanic with Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, at Fire Support Base Susan, a helicopter lost power and as it crashed, burst into flame. Private Ford, with complete disregard for his safety, rushed into the burning wreckage and pulled the pilot to safety. Private First Class Ford’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.