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 Fifth Class Ronald V. Middleton (ASN: US-53700337), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 4 September 1968 at the USARSO Demolition Area, Canal Zone. Immediately after a stack of 4.2 inch high explosive mortar rounds accidentally caught fire, Specialist Middleton, seeing that a comrade was enveloped in the fire and unable to get away from the burning munitions, rushed to his aid with complete disregard for his own safety, with full knowledge that the burning and overheated munitions might detonate at any moment. Specialist Middleton helped his injured comrade extinguish his burning clothing and with another comrade removed the injured man from the danger area. Specialist Middleton stayed with his injured comrade, applying first aid and treating for shock until the arrival of the ambulance. Specialist Middleton’s heroic act and courageous conduct in this very hazardous situation is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.