The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Specialist Fifth Class Steven E. Kabel, United States Army, for heroism in connection with ground operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Kabel distinguished himself by heroism on 19 January 1970 while serving as demolitions sergeant at Camp Thanh Tri in the Mekong Delta. At 0420 hours on 19 January, Camp Thanh Tri came under an enemy mortar and ground attack. Specialist Kabel noted that the command tower had not been occupied. He immediately mounted the tower and began to direct counter mortar fire. He continued to do so until relieved by the team sergeant, who later found it necessary to leave the tower in order to perform other duties. During this period Specialist Kabel performed in a mature and professional manner, far surpassing his military experience. The failure of enemy sapper units who attacked the northern berm was due largely to Specialist Kabel’s exceptional performance in the command tower. Though the enemy had targeted a 75-mm. recoilless rifle on the tower from a distance of 150 meters and had fired at least ten rounds at the tower, Specialist Kabel remained in the tower and executed his duties with a complete disregard for his own safety. Specialist Kabel’s personal bravery and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, Special Forces and the United States Army.