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 Staff Sergeant Eddie L. Beck, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy at Anchorage International Airport on 27 November 1970. On that date Sergeant Beck, a passenger aboard a chartered aircraft which crashed and burned at the Anchorage International Airport, did, without regard for his own safety, remain aboard the aircraft to free several passengers that were trapped and then showed them to safety. He carried a burning passenger (who later died) off the aircraft and extinguished the fire. But Sergeant Beck did not stop. He re-entered the aircraft and continued to assist until the plane exploded and sent him hurling from the aircraft. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, in the dedication of his service to his country, Staff Sergeant Eddie L. Beck has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Army.