The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Airman’s Medal to Master Sergeant James R. Mears (AFSN: AF-19325566), United States Air Force, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life at DaNang Air Base, Republic of Vietnam on 31 August 1968. On that date he and three other noncommissioned officers volunteered to inspect an engine on a C-124 aircraft. Hostile forces launched a rocket attack on the base at 0245 hours with two rockets impacting in the vicinity of the aircraft and the inspection crew, wounding all members, one seriously. Through the application of his exemplary leadership, sound judgment and courage, he controlled the situation and was instrumental in saving the life of one noncommissioned officer, and the possible destruction of an Air Force aircraft. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, Sergeant Mears has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.