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 First Class John Fannin, Jr., United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 25 April 1962, near Bethel, Alaska, while serving as a Noncommissioned Advisor for the 2d Scout Battalion, 297 Infantry, United States Army Advisory Group, Alaska Army National Guard. Sergeant Fannin was aboard a helicopter with nine other passengers on a re-supply mission to the Eskimo village units when the aircraft crashed and burst into flames. Eight passengers died instantly; the ninth was rendered unconscious with a broken neck; and Sergeant Fannin sustained a broken leg, shock, and other multiple injuries. Despite his own dazed condition, painful injuries, and an impending explosion, he displayed complete disregard for his own personal safety by taking the rapidly diminishing time to aid the unconscious victim. With extreme fortitude, courage, and perseverance, he succeeded in dragging his severely injured fellow member away from the blazing wreckage to a safe position moments before the aircraft exploded. Sergeant Fannin’s heroic action in this dangerous situation is in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.