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 Second Class James Ross, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 24th Engineer Battalion (Armored Division) on 4 December 1957 at Fort Hood, Texas. While working in conjunction with another soldier inside an Armored Personnel Carrier, M-75, to repair a gasoline leak, an electrical cable in the forward section of the vehicle shorted, creating an electrical arc and igniting the gasoline fumes which filled the compartment. Instantly the inside of the carrier bursts into flames. Specialist Ross looked forward and saw his companion engulfed in the flames and struggling to regain his footing. With complete disregard for his own personal safety and without hesitation, Specialist Ross moved forward through the blaze, grasped the burning soldier by his clothing and pulled him through the rear escape door to safety. The presence of mind, immediate and courageous actions displayed by Specialist Ross in risking his life to save a fellow soldier reflect the utmost credit upon himself and the military service.