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 Raymond F. Stoklasa, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Headquarters Troop ,1st Squadron, 1st Cavalry, 1st Armored Division, on 13 October 1965 at Fort Hood, Texas. When a fire broke out in an apartment in the housing area of Fort Hood and commotion ensued, Master Sergeant Stoklasa unhesitatingly entered the burning building to determine whether or not anyone was inside. He heard children crying in the upstairs bedroom and, in two attempts to reach them was unsuccessful, once being so overcome by smoke and flames that he had to be dragged from the burning structure by others on the scene. Continuing to demonstrate his determination and complete disregard for his own safety, he then climbed a ladder placed on the outside of the building and was entering the dwelling when the father of the children handed him the youngest child. Master Sergeant Stoklasa then carried the one-year-old child down the ladder to safety and the father dropped his three older children into the arms of persons on the ground. Master Sergeant Stoklasa’s heroic conduct and profound concern for the welfare of others reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.