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 Second Lieutenant (Ordnance Corps) Robert D. Coale, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 34th Ordnance Detachment (Explosive Disposal), Sierra Army Depot, on 23 June 1965, near the Southeastern Section of Plumas County, California. Lieutenant Coale and three companions were fishing from a boat on the Frenchman Dam Reservoir approximately 500 yards from the shore when he heard screams coming from a camp site and saw a truck mounted trailer engulfed in flames. He proceeded immediately to the scene and upon arrival learned that one or more children were trapped inside the burning vehicle. With complete disregard for his own safety and ignoring the danger of an explosion, he jumped in the truck and drove it into the lake where his companions succeeded in extinguishing the flames. Although one child succumbed, his courage and prompt action prevented an explosion of the gasoline tank and possible injury to the number of bystanders. Lieutenant Coale’s heroic conduct in this emergency is in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.