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 Private Harold L. Cain, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on the night of 22 February 1957 in the vicinity of Seoul, Korea, when the C-124 aircraft on which he was a passenger developed engine trouble shortly after takeoff and crash landed on a sandbar in the Han River, bursting into flames on impact. Private Cain ignored the fiercely burning airplane and constant threat from explosion, and with complete disregard for his own life, voluntarily returned to the airplane to seek and aid injured survivors. He made repeated trips at the risk of his life in attempting to drag the injured men from the plane. His heroic efforts were hampered by darkness and danger from drowning in the fast slowing and freezing tide waters. Despite the icy water, he led several men suffering from shock away from the crash area and later helped load casualties onto rescue helicopters. Private Cain continued his heroic efforts until all of the injured had been evacuated and removed to safety. When he finally consented to his own evacuation the raging river had risen above his knees and threatened to sweep him into the icy waters. His prompt and courageous action reflects great credit on himself and the military service.