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 Master Sergeant James H. Collier, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion (Airborne), 508th Infantry, Fort Kobbe, Canal Zone, on 9 July 1965 at the Rio Hato Training Reservation, Republic of Panama. As Safety Noncommissioned Officer on board a C-45 aircraft during a parachute jump exercise, Master Sergeant Collier observed that one of the jumpers had a malfunctioning static line and was being dragged behind the aircraft. With complete disregard for his own safety, Master Sergeant Collier leaned outside the aircraft in an effort to cut the static line. To accomplish this dangerous feat, he had to lie flat on the floor of the aircraft with the upper half of his body extended outside the door and exposed to the blast of the propellers. Through his determination and courage, he succeeded in cutting the static line which enabled the jumper to fall free, deploy his reserve parachute, and make a safe descent to the ground. Master Sergeant Collier’s heroic conduct, prompt actions, and profound concern for a fellow soldier are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.