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 West F. Chappell, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 20 April 1971 while rescuing individuals who were trapped in a fire at the Imperial Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand. With complete disregard for his safety, Sergeant Chappell demonstrated great courage and composure in aiding persons who were forced to exit the structure through windows. He prevented numerous individuals from jumping to almost certain death on the concrete below by relaying them to the top of a bus parked beneath a ledge on the first floor of the hotel. Following this rescue action, he courageously entered the building at great personal risk and, battling dense smoke and flame, pounded on doors alerting the occupants to the danger; thereby preventing the possible loss of the additional lives. His indomitable courage, under extremely dangerous circumstances, served as an inspiring example to all present. Sergeant Chappell’s heroism reflected great credit on him and the United States Army.