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 Donald E. Smith, United States Army Air Forces, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 4 April 1947, at the scene of an airplane crash in the fjord at Naranarsauak, Greenland. With utter disregard for his safety, entered the iceberg-filled water and swam several hundred feet to the aircraft. He voluntarily exposed himself to the icy water and freezing temperature for an extended period of time during the rescue of the pilot. He remained in the fjord until the last person was on shore, standing by to give assistance wherever needed. Through his action, casualties from shock and drowning were prevented, and by this act of selfless courage, Sergeant Smith brought great credit to himself and the military service.