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 Master Sergeant Robert M. Finley, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Headquarters Company, United States Army Training Center, Infantry, Fort Jackson, South Carolina, on 9 May 1962, in Columbia South Carolina. When Sergeant Finley heard the screams of neighboring children, he rushed to the scene, saw their home on fire, and was told that a younger brother was still in the house. With complete disregard for his own safety and despite the dense smoke and fumes, he ran into the house, searched a burning bedroom for the boy and, unable to find him, came out of the house to inquire whether or not the child had escaped by himself. Hearing that the boy was still in the house, Sergeant Finley unhesitatingly reentered the blazing dwelling, and due to the increase of smoke and flames was forced to crawl along the floor to search for the child. Despite burns from blazing debris, he bravely continued his search and discovered the child locked in the bathroom. Through his soothing talk to the hysterical boy, he succeeded in getting him to unlock the door, grabbed the child in his arms and carried him to safety. He then continued his efforts in fighting the fire until the fire department arrived. Sergeant Finley’s exemplary conduct in this emergency and his prompt and courageous action reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.