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 Donald C. Hanks (ASN: RA-19810830), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while engaged in a fire fighting mission near Chicken, Alaska on 19 August 1966. Specialist Hanks accompanied by a fellow soldier, displayed outstanding courage and utter disregard for his own safety by entering a burning camp to save the life of Mr. Ellman Pitka. The camp was encircled by fire, burning with intense heat and dense smoke. Several others had attempted to rescue the endangered man from the burning camp using a helicopter and a bulldozer. When all others available had failed and assumed Mr. Pitka was dead, Specialist Hanks exposed himself on the outside of an M-113 Armored Personnel Carrier to guide the driver into the blaze and rescue Mr. Pitka. Specialist Hank’s heroic conduct, prompt actions, and determination in this hazardous situation are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.