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 Corporal Melvin G. Burchett, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the 307th Airborne Engineer Battalion, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, on 6 October 1954. While driving a jeep on an inspection tour of parking lots in the new division area at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, he observed a C-119 aircraft crash into an open area near a group of new buildings. Corporal Burchett arriving at the scene of the crash, and with complete disregard for his personal safety entered the flaming wreckage, he assisted in rescue operations of injured personnel in the aircraft and upon discovering a broken fuel line which was feeding gasoline to the fire, plugged it up to prevent greater fire. After this action Corporal Burchett assisted in fighting the fire. The prompt and courageous action of Corporal Burchett undoubtedly saved lives and reflects distinct credit on himself and the military service.