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 First Class Robert C. Hoeller, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 5 November 1971 at Rottingen, Federal Republic of Germany. While making a liaison visit to the Gubelstadt Air Field, Sergeant Hoeller was present when German authorities requested American assistance at the site of a civil disaster. An old factory building had collapsed, entrapping a large number of employees under tons of debris. Sergeant Hoeller, drawing upon his experience and knowledge as a civilian fireman, took charge of the rescue operation. Crawling into the wreckage, he located a woman who was buried in the debris, from her screams for help. Completely disregarding the grave personal danger from the tons of precariously hanging debris, Sergeant Hoeller stayed by the woman, delicately removing each piece of wood and stone by hand until it was possible to move the victim to safety and medical attention. Sergeant Hoeller spent over six hours in affecting her rescue. German authorities then requested that Sergeant Hoeller continue his assistance to them in clearing the remaining disaster area. Sergeant Hoeller received the highest praise from German Police and fire authorities for his rescue efforts. Through Sergeant Hoeller’s labor the life of one victim was snatch from certain death. By his courageous action, humanitarian regard for his fellow man, and dedication of service to his country, Sergeant First Class Hoeller has reflected great credit on himself and the United States Army.