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 Private Kenneth Ball, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 1 November 1964 as a member of Company A, 7th Battalion, 2d Training Brigade, United States Army Training Center, Armor, Fort Knox, Kentucky. Private Ball unhesitatingly participated in a hazardous rescue mission when he and two military companions observed an apartment house on fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, he repeatedly entered the blazing structure, ran from floor to floor through dense smoke, and succeeded in evacuating trapped persons from the burning apartment before the fire department arrived on the scene. He and his fellow soldiers evacuated a woman who was completely disabled, an elderly gentlemen unable to walk, and another man who was unable to reach safety without assistance. By his prompt action and courageous efforts, he participated in the evacuation mission that prevented the possible loss of life. Private Ball’s heroic conduct is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.