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 Major Richard W. Swanson (ASN: 0-6429A), United States Air Force, for heroism near Fort Worth, Texas on 14 August 1950. Captain Swanson voluntarily risked his life to save a fellow crew member, when the aircraft in which they were flying crashed and burst into flames. Despite the intensity of the heat, he remained in the aircraft attempting to remove an injured fellow officer, until severe burns forced him to seek medical attention. The exceptional courage and gallant efforts displayed by Captain Swanson reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.