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 James M. Gavin (ASN: RA-18859540), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while serving with the 282d Assault Helicopter Company, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 17 December 1968. Specialist Fourth Class Gavin distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions at Chu Lai airfield, while serving as crew chief of a UH-1H helicopter. His aircraft was witness to the crash of a C-123 cargo plane, which exploded on impact and immediately started to burn with its load of many American servicemen hopelessly trapped inside. Specialist Gavin’s helicopter landed close to the burning aircraft, and he immediately ran out to aid the injured. Seeing several servicemen trapped, unconscious inside the burning wreckage, he ran into the flames to pull them out. Although another explosion could have occurred at any minute, he continued to enter the flames carrying people to safety. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.