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 Fifth Class Edward P. McCarthy, Jr., United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy at McPheeters Barracks, Bad Hersfeld, Germany, on 13 November 1963. When an electrical fire erupted under the turret floor of the fully combat loaded tank within one hundred yards from the shop where Specialist McCarthy was working, he ran to the scene of intense heat and smoke. Observing several soldiers on top of the tank expending fire extinguishers through the hatches, he quickly realized that the hot turret floor was in contact with the primer ends of numerous rounds of ammunition. Then, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, he stuffed a rag in his mouth, leaped into the turret, and discharged a number of fire extinguishers on the source of the fire and on the exposed ammunition. After disconnecting the batteries, he continued his efforts by assisting in the offloading of ammunition which was almost too hot to be handled. By his courage, decisiveness and prompt action he averted the possible loss of life and destruction of valuable government property. Specialist McCarthy’s heroic conduct in this hazardous situation is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.