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 Sergeant First Class Jimmy D. Alexander, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 8 May 1971. On that date while visiting a friend in Newport News, Virginia, Sergeant Alexander placed himself in extreme danger while attempting to save the lives of six children trapped in a burning house. Upon arriving at the scene of the fire, he discovered flames and sparks shooting through the roof. Despite intense heat and smoke, which prevented others from entering, Sergeant Alexander, without regard for his own safety, entered the burning residence by breaking a rear window. He was immediately hit by the intense heat and heavy smoke. By feeling along the wall with his hands he was able to find a baby and a small child. With a child in each arm he attempted to work his way out of the house. Due to the thick smoke and intense heat he stumbled, dropping the small child. He felt around the floor trying to locate the child until the heat and smoke were so great he had to leave. He then climbed out a window, still holding the baby. At this time there was an explosion which made it impossible to return to the burning house. Sergeant Alexander began mouth-to-mouth resuscitation on the baby in an attempt to revive it and continued his efforts until they reached the hospital. By risking his life in an attempt to save others, Sergeant First Class Alexander displayed extraordinary heroism which marked him as an outstanding individual. By his heroic achievement and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, Sergeant First Class Alexander has reflected great credit on himself and the United States Army.