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 Leo L. Wright, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on 1 May 1969. Staff Sergeant Wright distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a crew chief in a UH-1H command and control helicopter. When the pilot saw an AH-1C Cobra crash into dense nipa palm, he flew to the nearest area available to land at the crash site, and Staff Sergeant Wright secured two fire extinguishers. While other members of the crew attempted to extricate the pilot from the tangled wreckage, he effectively used the extinguishers to keep the growing fire from the cockpit area. Having determined that the pilot was alive and was receiving first aid, he persisted in searching for the co-pilot. The heat of the aircraft fire caused rounds in its ammunition bays to begin firing, and he returned to the injured pilot and assisted in carrying him to a safe distance from the burning aircraft. As soon as the rescuers moved away the Cobra exploded. He placed the injured pilot aboard the nearest helicopter and returned to the crash site to continue searching for the co-pilot. 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.