Galactic Medal of Honour — Mack Reynolds

It was the highest and most coveted award of all time. It was given only to the bravest among those defending Earth from the mysterious Kradens. Many had sacrificed their lives for it. The current bearer of the medal became the idol of all mankind - a man above the law, a man who would never want for anything. Everyone on Earth sought that medal. One man was going to cheat to win it - and live to regret it.