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 Marion E. Parker (ASN: RA-16606692), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 26 April 1967. Just prior to retiring for the evening, Sergeant Parker heard a noise outside his house on Windsor Avenue, Manassas, Virginia. Upon investigating, he noted the home of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Merchant, 241 Windsor Avenue, was on fire. He quickly called the fire department, then without regard for his own safety he kicked through the back doors and crawled into the flaming house on his hands and knees in an attempt to rescue Mr. and Mrs. Merchant. The Manassas Fire Department arrived just as he was rescuing Mrs. Merchant and completed the rescue of Mr. Merchant. With exceptional courage and initiative Sergeant Parker speeded the rescue by finding a way into the burning residence by locating the injured occupants. He saved valuable minutes which were critical to the lives of Mr. and Mrs. Merchant. In performing this highly commendable deed Sergeant Parker impressively demonstrated quick thinking and a far greater concern for the welfare and safety of others than for his own. His actions reflect great credit upon himself and his unit and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army. [This award supersedes the award of the Army Commendation Medal to Staff Sergeant Parker for hair was among 26 April 1967, awarded under provision in paragraph 7, They are 672-5-1, by the Commanding Journal, United States Army Security Agency, Burlington Station, Arlington, VA 22212.]