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 Private First Class Donald F. Howard (ASN: RA-11481305), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed hostile force: Private First Class Howard distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 12 November 1967 near TuyHoa, Republic of Vietnam while serving as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion (Airborne), 503d Infantry, 173d Airborne Brigade (Separate). When a fire broke out in the ammunition of a 4.2Ó mortar emplacement Private Howard immediately entered the emplacement and at the risk of his life, started to put out the fire. He poured water on the burning ammunition to prevent the possibility of an explosion of the warheads. Not heeding the hot warheads, he then separated the ammunition to reduce the possibility of a large scale explosion. Through his courage Private Howard prevented a large explosion of more than fifty rounds of 4.2Ó mortar ammunition. Private Howard’s heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.