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 Captain John H. Pawson, Australian Imperial Forces, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy near Lokanu Point, New Guinea, on 14 August 1943. As Liaison Officer to a United States Infantry Regiment, he volunteered to rescue the survivors of an American bomber which had crashed in enemy-controlled waters northeast of Dot Island. With two other volunteers he proceeded in a small boat to the crash area. Constantly within range of enemy machine gun, mortar, and small arms fire, he first located a life raft abandoned by the survivors. Then, continuing his search, he located the airplane, recovered the survivors, and returned them safely to Nassau Bay. Captain Pawson’s voluntary and courageous action was responsible for saving the lives of three members of the bomber crew.