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 Fourth Class [then Private First Class] John Pappageorge, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the 516th Transportation Company (Airplane), Fort Benning, Georgia, on 24 June 1964, near Ridgway, South Carolina. When Specialist Pappageorge saw an Army aircraft crash during a night 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 joined a fire fighting party to aid in the evacuation of the injured personnel from the burning aircraft. Despite flash explosions, he was undaunted by the dangerous circumstances while fighting the fire. Throughout the hazardous rescue operations, he continued his courageous efforts until all the casualties were removed from the blazing wreckage and the fire was under control. Specialist Pappageorge’s heroic conduct, determination, and deep concern for his fellow man 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 Pappageorge for heroism on 24 June 1964 as announced in General Orders Number 73 Headquarters 11th Air Assault Division, Fort Benning, Georgia, dated 21 July 1964.]