By Direction

of the

President of the United States

the

Distinguished Service Cross

Is Awarded 

to

Joel M. Sabel

(Posthumously)

Rank and Organization:  Specialist Four, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade

Date and Place:  10 July 1967, Republic of Vietnam

Reason:  For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam:  Specialist Four Sabel distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 10 July 1967 while serving as a medic of an Airborne infantry company on a combat mission deep in hostile territory.  when his company came under heavy automatic weapons and mortar fire from a well entrenched enemy force, Specialist Sabel repeatedly ignored his own safety to move among his wounded comrades to treat them.  Seriously wounded himself, he refused medical aid and instructed others in treating the injured while he bandaged his own wounds.  He continued to expose himself to the withering hostile fire while rendering constant aid to others despite his own injuries.  With mortar and automatic weapons falling around him, he never stopped to consider his own welfare.  He was mortally wounded while bravely caring for the needs of his comrades in the face of grave danger.  Specialist Four Sabel's extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.