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 Phillip S. Passano (ASN: R-853063), United States Army, for heroism, not involving actual conflict with an enemy, displayed while serving with the 10th Motor Transport Company, Quartermaster Train, 3d Infantry Division, near Fort Lewis, Washington, 27 January 1931. The driver of an automobile on the Pacific Highway attempted to slow down for an Army truck being driven by Sergeant Passano. In so doing, the car skidded and turned over, catching fire immediately, thus making it impossible for the driver and another occupant to escape. Without hesitation Sergeant Passano stopped his truck, and without regard for his own safety, broke the glass in the burning automobile, and despite his own serious injury assisted the occupants from their dangerous predicament, thereby undoubtedly saving them from fatal injury. The timely and courageous action on the part of Sergeant Passano reflects great credit upon himself and the Army of the United States.