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 Sergeant John M. Durham, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on the morning of 21 March 1969, while on temporary duty at Barstow, California. Observing a burning motor vehicle in the hotel parking lot, Sergeant Durham rushed to the scene and noticed a person within. Disregarding the possibility that the gasoline tank of the vehicle might explode, he managed to remove the man from the burning vehicle and get him to safety. When the local fire department arrived at the scene the automobile was declared a total loss. After the situation was under the fire department’s control Sergeant Durham was treated for minor burns on his hands. Quick reaction on the part of Sergeant Durham saved the victim from serious injury and possible death. This act of heroism, above and beyond the call of duty, demonstrates unusual courage and reflects great credit upon Sergeant Durham, the Sixth United States Army Escort Detachment, and the United States Army.