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 Melvin N. Vito (ASN: US-52660559), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed hostile force: Specialist Four Vito distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 20 November 1967 in the vicinity of Dak To, Republic of Vietnam, while serving as a member of Battery B, 4th Battalion, 60th Artillery. The M-42 weapons section to which Specialist Vito was assigned as a driver had rendezvoused with two fuel tankers which they were to escort to a fire base near Dak To. As the M-42s were turning around to begin the trip back, an infantryman attached to provide security accidentally discharged his weapon. The round entered one of the ammunition wells, striking a series of 40-mm. rounds and causing the powder to ignite and burn. Specialist Vito, realizing the imminent danger to the other men and equipment, and at the risk of his life, jumped onto the track and upon identifying the stricken well, threw open the cover and extracted the burning ammunition with his bare hands. His quick and courageous action prevented the possible loss of more than a dozen lives and the damage to many valuable pieces of equipment. Specialist Vito’s heroic action was in the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.