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 Staff Sergeant August I. Eckert, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Howitzer Battery, 3d Reconnaissance Squadron, 14th Armored Cavalry, at the Seventh Army Training Center, Grafenwohr, Germany, on 11 March 1963. During the refueling of an M-52 self-propelled 105-mm. Howitzer, loaded with ammunition, Sergeant Eckert noticed gasoline flowing from the hose of a gasoline truck and envelop the vehicle inflames with complete disregard for his own personal safety, and despite the danger of an explosion from both the gasoline truck and the Howitzer, he tried to release a malfunctioning nozzle lever in an attempt to stop the flow of gasoline. Sergeant Eckert continued his brave efforts until his clothing caught on fire and he was forced to retreat from the blaze. After extinguishing his burning clothing, he remained on the scene to ensure that all personnel and equipment, including the Howitzer were removed from the scene of the fire. By his calmness, courage and decisiveness, he averted possible loss of life and damage to valuable Government property. Sergeant Eckert’s heroic actions are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.