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 First Lieutenant (Transportation Corps) James D. Patton, 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 Lieutenant Patton 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 began to evacuate the injured personnel from the burning aircraft. Although he was knocked from the wreckage by the force of a flash explosion, he was undaunted by the momentary setback, returned to the flaming aircraft, assisted in extricating an injured man who was pinned under an engine, and then administered first aid to him. 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. Lieutenant Patton’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 Lieutenant Patton four heroism 24 June 1964 as announced in General Orders Number 73, Headquarters 11th Air Assault Division, Fort Benning, Georgia, dated 21 July 1964.]