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 Fifth Class Ronald W. Bench, United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed enemy force on 18 September 1970 vehicle serving as a Vehicle Commander with Troop A, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, fire broke out in a mortar vehicle loaded with ammunition. Within seconds, the vehicle was in danger of exploding. Though the fire seemed completely out of control, Sergeant Bench continued to fight the fire at great risk to his own life. Using fire extinguishers, water, and his bare hands, he succeeded in extinguishing the fire and in pulling smoldering ammunition from the racks and out of the vehicle before they could explode. Only through his perseverance and courage was the fire brought under control. Sergeant Bench’s 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.