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 Fourth Class Arthur Maldonado (ASN: US-56426904), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 6 March 1968 by voluntarily exposing himself to great personal hazard by driving a burning two and one-half ton mess truck away from approximately 50 sleeping men and 15 vehicles, which were loaded with his Battery’s basic load of 105-mm. ammunition. Specialist Maldonado performed his courageous act in the face of extreme danger. There was fire within the cab and at the rear of the vehicle; small arms ammunition located on the vehicle was exploding; and burning units from the mess stoves were on the verge of exploding. Because of Specialist Maldonado’s immediate action, the fire was prevented from spreading to large quantities of ammunition in the nearby area. This selfless disregard for his own safety was responsible for preventing extensive loss of life and government property. Specialist Maldonado’s intrepidity and heroic conduct reflect great credit upon himself, the 7th Infantry Division, and the United States Army. [This award supersedes the Army Commendation Medal awarded to Specialist For Arthur Maldonado has announced in General orders number 40, Headquarters, 7th Infantry Division, APO San Francisco, 96207, dated 21 May 1968.]