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 Hugh L. Thomas, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy at Fort Sill, Oklahoma on 15 March 1971. On that date a fire broke out in an administrative storage area where men were working and was spreading toward a tracked recovery vehicle parked nearby. Specialist Thomas realized immediately that the vehicle would explode if it remained where it was, destroying everything near it. He climbed into the vehicle and drove it to a safe area. By his courageous action, humanitarian regard for his fellow man, and dedication of service to his country, Specialist Four Thomas has reflected great credit on himself and the United States Army.