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 Sixth Class Walter E. Vance, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the 516th Transport Airplane Company, 11th Air Assault Division, Fort Benning, Georgia, on 24 June 1964, near Ridgway, South Carolina. When Specialist Vance saw an Army aircraft crashed during a tight field exercise, he immediately proceeded to the scene of the accident to participate in the rescue effort. Upon arrival at the crash site, he displayed complete disregard for his own safety, ignored the intense heat from the fuel fed blaze, and unhesitatingly began to evacuate the injured personnel from the burning aircraft. Although he was knocked to the ground by the force of a flash explosion and sustained facial burns, he was undaunted by the momentary setback, returned to the wreckage, and assisted in extricating an injured man who was pinned under an engine. Throughout the hazardous rescue operation, he continued his courageous efforts until all the casualties were removed from the blazing wreckage and the fire was under control. Specialist Vance’s heroic conduct, determination, and 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 to Specialist Vance for heroism on 24 June 1964 as announced in General Orders Number 78, Headquarters 11th Air Assault Division, Fort Benning, Georgia, dated 21 July 1964.]