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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert J. Belteau (ASN: 0-1882147), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States while serving with Company L, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action on 13 February 1953, in the vicinity of Magae-Dong, North Korea. On that date, an enemy mortar round struck an ammunition dump located in the sector of Company L. This immediately ignited a flame thrower and flames began spreading to the nearby ammunition. Lieutenant Belteau, disregarding his personal safety and fully aware of the danger that existed, unhesitatingly rushed into the midst of the flaming ammunition dump and, though grenades and various small arms rounds were already exploding, succeeded in extinguishing the fire by pouring sand over the explosives. Through his courageous action, the lives of many comrades were saved and the destruction of government property was greatly minimized. The outstanding devotion to duty and heroism displayed by Lieutenant Belteau reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.