The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Airman’s Medal to Airman Third Class Elbert Eugene Long (AFSN: AF-1865093), United States Air Force, for heroism involving risk of life at Lake Brownwood, Texas, on 24 July 1963. On that date, a group of Airman Long’s companions while swimming failed to notice that a novice member of their group had panicked in deep water and was drowning. Airman Long, who had remained on the shore and far from being an expert swimmer himself, went to his companion’s rescue and after subduing his wild struggles delivered him safely to shore. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, Airman Long has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.