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 Private David J. Murray, United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed enemy on 25 March 1970 while serving as a gunner with Troop A, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date a mortar round exploded in a mortar tube, mortally wounding three men. As explosions ripped the air and fragments started flying, Private Murray dismounted his vehicle and ran towards the burning holocaust, attempting to extinguish the flames. Realizing that his firefighting attempts were in vain, he grabbed one of the wounded men and assured his evacuation. Private Murray’s action were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.