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 (Chaplain) F. Walter Montondon, United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed enemy on 25 January 1971 while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 3d Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date a 55 gallon drum of gasoline spilled, spreading to a burning block of explosive matter and thus ignited. The blaze then spread to two nearby trailers, one of which contained explosives and ammunition. The ammunition began to burn and explode, endangering the lives of all individuals within the immediate area. Observing this, Chaplain Montondon moved to the scene of the blaze and personally removed the burning ammunition trailer from the area. He then returned and removed the other burning trailer from the populated area of the perimeter. After accomplishing this he then turned his attention to the burning ammunition trailer. Ignoring the exploding ammunition, and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Chaplain Montondon climbed into it and began to above dirt on the blaze. Noticing a burning case of explosive matter he quickly removed it from the trailer. He then observed an individual wandering dazedly about the danger area. Ignoring his own safety once again, Chaplain Montondon ran to the man and pulled him to safety just as an explosion occurred. Through his swift and decisive actions, Chaplain Montondon averted a near disaster by removing a threat to the lives and safety of all individuals in the area. Chaplain (Captain) Montondon’s 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.