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 Sergeant First Class Paul R. Cooper, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy near Song Be, Republic of Vietnam on 25 January 1967. On that date Sergeant Cooper was on an emergency extraction for crew and passenger of a downed helicopter. After the successful insertion of Sergeant Cooper and the rescue personnel there was a midair collision of an Air Force aircraft and the rescue helicopter. Sergeant Cooper, with complete disregard for his safety, entered the downed smoldering helicopter to make repeated efforts to both free the trapped pilots and shut down the engine which was running out of control, and the ruptured fuel tanks presented a greater threat of explosion in addition to the fire. After many attempts, the unconscious pilots were finally freed and given immediate first aid medical treatment by Sergeant Cooper. He then organized carrying parties to remove them from the area. Returning to the still burning aircraft Sergeant Cooper removed weapons, equipment, and documents. His final attempt to contain the fire was successfully accomplished by locating and shutting off the fuel line, thereby stopping the engine. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, in the dedication of the service to his country, Sergeant Cooper is reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.