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 Neal Liles, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Company A, 159th Transportation Battalion (Boat), Dustis, Va., at Newport News, Virginia on 19 March 1959. Upon hearing cries coming from a neighbor’s home which was engulfed in flames, Sergeant Liles ran immediately to the scene and learned that a 2-year old girl was trapped in one of the bedrooms. Unhesitatingly and without regard for his own personal safety, he began attempts to reach the stranded child. Despite conditions of thick, acrid smoke and intense heat, Sergeant Liles continued his efforts until he found the child, scooped her into his arms and thrust her through a window into the arms of her mother. In the performance of this brave action he suffered severe burns to his face and arms. The prompt courage and determination displayed by Sergeant Liles in unselfishly risking his life in this emergency undoubtedly saved the child’s life, reflecting the utmost credit upon himself and the military service.