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 Corporal Fred E. Parker (ASN: 16030604), United States Army Air Forces, for heroism while serving with the 311th Depot Repair Squadron at Hill Field, Ogden, Utah, on 2 August 1943. While the B-17 “Suzie Q” was undergoing repair, the bomb bay tank was accidentally released, striking the hangar floor, and breaking a gage. The gasoline which flowed from the break instantly ignited. In the midst of flaming gasoline and faced with the imminent danger of an explosion, Corporal Parker, by placing his hand on the break in the tank, halted the flow of gasoline. By doing so, it was possible for other personnel to extinguish the flames, thereby preventing great damage and possible injury or loss of life.