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 Gerald E. Gudinas (ASN: US-56909094), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. Private First Class Gudinas distinguished himself by heroism on 18 December 1967, while serving as a radio-telephone operator with Company A, 1st Battalion (Airborne), 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile), in the Republic of Vietnam. When several members of his platoon ignited a fire in a small haystack and an artillery round exploded injuring them, Private First Class Gudinas, disregarding his own safety, moved forward to administer first aid to his wounded comrades. He remained with the injured men until a medical evacuation helicopter arrived. Private First Class Gudinas’ display of personal bravery and devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.