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 Staff Sergeant John W. Irwin (ASN: RA-11346877), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 6 June 1966, while serving with Detachment C-101A, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Camp Pahwai, Thailand. Displaying great presence of mind and exceptional initiative, Sergeant Irwin, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, rescued a fellow soldier who had been engulfed in flames from a gasoline explosion. Seeing his comrade running wildly with his entire upper body in flames, Sergeant Irwin immediately and unhesitatingly ran to him, threw him to the ground, and with his own body extinguished the flames. Although having sustained numerous painful burns, Sergeant Irwin remained at the scene directing the evacuation of his comrade and refusing treatment until assured that his more seriously injured comrade was being given necessary medical aid. By his selfless and intrepid action Sergeant Irwin saved the life of his comrade and reduced his ultimate injuries to a minimum. Sergeant Irwin’s actions are in the highest traditions of the service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.