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 Sergeant Vernon E. Nevil, United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed enemy on 25 June 1970 while serving as first sergeant with Company M, 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 to the ground, burst into flames. Sergeant Nevil, realizing that nearby ammunition presented a dangerous threat to the rescue effort, ran to the crash area and removed the ammunition to a safe distance from the downed craft. First Sergeant Nevil’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.