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 Lieutenant Colonel (Armor) John L. Olow, III, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy at Tuchelhausen, Germany on 18 January 1966. On that date, while following a convoy between Hohestadt and Tuchelhausen, Germany, he observed a tank leave the road and fall down a steep embankment. At the risk of his life, he immediately went to the aid of the two crewmen trapped by the tank. He freed one man who was pinned inside the driver’s compartment. He then re-entered the tank to turn off the engine, preventing a possible fire or explosion. He then attempted to free the other man from under the tank, digging first with his hands and later with a shovel, in spite of the obvious danger that the tank could slide down the embankment or fall forward onto its turret, crushing the injured man and himself. He continued to dig until the man was rescued. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, in the dedication of its service to his country, Colonel Olow has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.