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 Chief Warrant Officer David R. Olson, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy at Fort Rucker, Alabama on 14 – 15 April 1969. Warrant Officer Olson voluntarily executed an aerial search for a downed aircraft during the hours of darkness in extremely hazardous weather conditions. Fully cognizant of the existing thunderstorms, low ceilings, heavy rain and forming ground fog, he departed for the suspected crash area and began a systematic search. Virtually hovering between the trees and low, ragged clouds, he employed the helicopter’s searchlight to see the ground. The reflection of the searchlight and the clouds and rain produced vertigo inducing sensations, and a single miscalculation would have been disastrous. Having located the downed aircraft and reported it’s position, Warrant Officer Olson decided to land in a small clearing adjacent to the crash. Once committed, the landing had to be completed, as a missed approach was impossible due to weather and terrain. Warrant Officer Olson searched the wreckage and bodies for signs of life. Ascertaining that one man was alive, though seriously injured, he requested professional medical evacuation and remained with the injured man to administer first aid despite the possibility of fire or explosion. The heroic efforts of Warrant Officer Olson saved the life of a fellow soldier at the risk of his own and are worthy of the highest praise. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, in the dedication of his service to his country, Warrant Officer Olson has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.