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 Major (Infantry) Lyle C. McCarty, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy in the Guadalupe Mountains, New Mexico, on 15 November 1969. On that date Major McCarty rescued members of a Civil Patrol search party. Major McCarty, after being informed that injured personnel would die without immediate medical help, flew his helicopter at great risk to himself into rugged mountainous terrain at night during a snowstorm, and with no ground reference area. When he found that there was no safe place to land, he set the helicopter down upon a steep slope ledge dangerously close to obstacles. Through great physical effort and mental strain he held the helicopter on the slope, with only the toes of the helicopter skids touching the ground while the injured parties were loaded. This valiant endeavor consequently saved their lives. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, in the dedication of his service to this country, Major McCarty has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.