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 Ernest J. Whatley, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company and Band, 3d Armored Division Support Command, in the Edwards Housing Area, Frankfurt, Germany, at approximately 2145 hours, 29 October 1968. Having been alerted to a fire in the apartment of a neighbor, Sergeant Whatley voluntarily risked his own life rushing to the aid of the children. With complete disregard for his personal safety and displaying cool judgment, Sergeant Whatley braved the flame, heat and smoke to enter the apartment and rescue four children. After three trips into the inferno, all four children were safely evacuated from the building. Having ascertained that the children were safe, he then re-entered the building and supervised the systematic evacuation of other occupants from the stairwell. Sergeant Whatley’s quick thinking, complete disregard for personal hazards, and natural leadership saved four children from injury or death. His actions are in the highest traditions of the military service.