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 Howard W. Hill, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while serving with Battery B, 3d Battalion, 76th Artillery, 3d Infantry Division Artillery, during a field training exercise at Vilseck, Germany. On 16 November 1968, a cargo carrier loaded with high explosive 8-inch howitzer projectiles and propellant charges caught fire, presenting an immediate danger to other government property and lives of all personnel in the vicinity. Specialist Hill, observing the cargo carrier as it burst into flames, spontaneously and with complete disregard for his personal safety, entered the burning cargo carrier and attempted to extinguish the blaze with CO2 fire extinguishers. Realizing that the fire extinguishers were not having the desired effect, Specialist Hill took immediate action to obtain water and continued to fight the blaze, at the same time assisting in the off-loading of the ammunition. Despite the smoke and intense heat and aware that the ammunition could explode at any second, Specialist Hill remained in the burning vehicle until the flames were completely extinguished. Specialist Hill’s assistance in the rapid off-loading of the ammunition and the subsequent control of the fire prevented the loss of life and extensive destruction of government property. Sergeant Hill’s heroism and presence of mind are in accord with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect distant credit upon and, the Division, and the United States Army.