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 Specialist Fourth Class William W. Ross, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 1 May 1969. Specialist Fourth Class Ross distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as door gunner on a UH-1H command and control helicopter. Just after take-off he saw an AH-1G Cobra crash after take-off into dense nipa palm. The pilot immediately landed near the wreckage, and Specialist Ross ran at once to the burning aircraft. The pilot was tightly pinned in the cockpit and flames threatened to engulf the entire aircraft. He climbed into the wreckage and pried the twisted metal away from the pilot’s legs, enabling the other rescuers to lift him from the aircraft. He helped to carry the pilot a short distance away and immediately began administering first aid to the seriously injured man. When small arms ammunition began exploding in the aircraft wreckage, he helped carry the pilot further from the wreckage. He then helped place the pilot aboard the nearest helicopter and accompanied him to the hospital, continuing to apply necessary first aid en route, His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.