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 Specialist Fifth Class William S. Mikasa, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while serving as an Aidman, Troop D, 3d Squadron, 12th Cavalry, 3d Armored Division (Spearhead), on 6 November 1963 near Hirzenhein, Germany. Specialist Mikasa was aboard a CR-34 helicopter with 10 other passengers when the aircraft crashed in a hilly, heavily wooded area, was totally demolished, and subject to explosion from an arcing high power line which fell across the front fuel cell. Ignoring the impending danger, and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Specialist Mikasa worked diligently and succeeded in removing all of the victims from the wreckage and then carried them a safe distance away. After administering first aid to the injured, he hastily walked nearly a mile and, upon reaching a German sanatorium, arranged for the evacuation of the wounded. For the next 2 or 3 hours, he assisted in transporting, on foot, three very seriously injured soldiers by stretcher to the sanatorium, and then again returned to the wreckage to offer further assistance. By his fortitude, perseverance, and courageous actions throughout this hazardous emergency situation, he saved the lives of many of the aircraft passengers. Specialist Mikasa’s heroic conduct and deep concern for his fellow soldiers are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself in the military service. [This award supersedes award of the Army Commendation Medal awarded for heroism, on 6 November 1963, as announced in General Orders Number 74, Headquarters, 3d Armored Division (Spearhead), APO 39, US Forces, dated 28 April 1964.]