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 Specialist Fourth Class Joseph Johnson, United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. Specialist Fourth Class Johnson distinguished himself on 31 March 1972 when a helicopter crashed on Bien Hoa Army Base. Specialist Johnson rushed to the scene and discovered an injured man nearby. He immediately rendered first aid to the victim. Realizing that the helicopter was still running and the possibility of an explosion or fire posed a danger to the onlookers who had begun to gather, Specialist Johnson, without hesitation and with disregard for his own safety, entered the cockpit and succeeded in shutting down the aircraft. He then resumed rendering first aid to the victim until an ambulance arrived. Through his calm actions and disregard for personal safety, he aided the attempt to save the life of the victim and prevented possible injuries among an estimated twenty-five bystanders. Specialist Fourth Class Johnson’s heroic 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.