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 Captain (Medical Corps) Ludwig J. Cibelli (ASN: 0-1689168), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while serving with the Medical Detachment, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82d Airborne Division, on 30 April 1945, at ****, Germany. While waiting, under fire, for the assault crossing of the Elbe River, a soldier accidentally set off a smoke grenade in his pocket. Disregarding his own safety, Captain Cibelli directed first aid and the extinguishing of the soldier’s burning clothing, while he performed a life saving emergency operation. A Gammon Grenade in the soldier’s pocket suddenly exploded, killing a patient and wounding Captain Cibelli. He refused evacuation and continued to expose himself to treat the wounded from the continued artillery fire. Later, he made the crossing and set up his aid station. He remained calm and clear headed and, although in severe pain, treated and evacuated all the wounded. Captain Cibelli’s gallant action is a credit to the Medical Department, his unit and the United States Armed Forces.