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 First Lieutenant (Coast Artillery Corps) Thomas A. O’Boyle, United States Army, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy, in Italy, on 28 February 1944. When a tent containing small-arms ammunition caught fire in the field artillery battery area, Lieutenant O’Boyle, disregarding the danger from the intense heat and exploding ammunition, promptly rushed to the scene. After emptying a fire extinguisher on the flames he continued his efforts by throwing dirt on the fire until ordered to a place of safety by his commanding officer. His courageous action helped to prevent the fire from spreading, thereby averting damage to equipment and possible injury to personnel, and exemplified the highest traditions of the military service.