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 Ernest J. Woodward, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Company B, 227th Assault Helicopter Battalion, 11th Air Assault Division, Fort Benning, Georgia, on 20 May 1964, at Fort Stewart, Georgia. Specialist Woodward was performing as the crew chief of a helicopter in a flight of four aircraft when the lead helicopter, fully loaded with troops, crashed into a wooden area immediately after takeoff. As soon as his aircraft landed, Specialist Woodward grabbed a fire extinguisher and ran to the downed helicopter to assist in the evacuation of the wounded. Ignoring the impending danger of a fuel explosion and with complete disregard for his own safety, he pulled injured crew members out of the wreckage despite the ruptured fuel tanks in the running engine of the downed aircraft. With fortitude, perseverance, and courage, he worked diligently throughout this hazardous emergency mission until all the passengers and crew were evacuated. Specialist Woodward’s heroic conduct in deep concern for his fellow soldiers are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. [This award supersedes the award of the Army Commendation Medal for heroism on 20 May 1964, as announced in General Orders Number 124, Headquarters, 11th Air Assault Division, Fort Benning, Georgia, dated 24 September 1964.]