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 Lieutenant Colonel (Signal Corps) Jimmy D. DeLoach, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the Aviation Test Board, Fort Rucker, Alabama, in rescuing the seriously injured and unconscious pilot from the wreckage of a burning aircraft on 13 February 1969. Colonel DeLoach was observing a YCH-47C helicopter conducting sling loading operations at a remote test site near Apalachicola, Florida, when the pilot lost control of the aircraft. It somersaulted over on its back and exploded into flames trapping the unconscious pilot and aircraft commander in the cockpit. Despite numerous explosions and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Colonel DeLoach rushed to the burning helicopter and crawled under the nose section to remove debris and seat cushions to release the pilot. He moved the pilot to safety, administered first aid, and placed him in the evacuation helicopter. Colonel DeLoach voluntarily risked his life to save the life of another. His actions reflect great credit upon him and the United States Army.