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 First Class Jackie R. Williams, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 1 July 1955 at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, as a member of Battery B, 61st Antiaircraft Automatic Weapons Battalion, Reserve Command, 6th Armored Division. While acting in then capacity of Instructor and Safety Noncommissioned Officer on a Live Hand Grenade Range, a trainee whom Sergeant Williams was coaching accidentally allowed a safety lever of a concussion grenade to be released while holding the grenade in his hand after pulling the safety pin. Sergeant Williams with utter disregard for his own personal safety, immediately pried the grenade from the trainee’s grasp, pushed him out of danger and threw the grenade which exploded immediately after clearing the protective wall. His alertness and courageous action, without regard for his personal safety, undoubtedly prevented injury and loss of life among his fellow soldiers in the danger area. Sergeant Williams’ prompt and gallant action reflects distinct credit on himself and the military service.