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 P. Brennan, United States Air Force, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life as Aircraft Commander of a B-29 of the 344th Bombardment Squadron, 98th Bombardment Wing (M), FIFTH Air Force, on 18 November 1951. While taking off for a combat mission, the aircraft, with a maximum load of 500 pound demolition bombs and gasoline, lost power, and after a unsuccessful attempt was made to stop, crashed at the end of the runway and burst into flame. Captain Brennan had left the burning aircraft when he noticed two crew members, apparently in a state of shock, standing at the aircraft amidst burning gasoline and exploding machine gun shells. Although Captain Brennan knew the fuses of the bombs were of a delicate nature and would explode at any moment, he immediately rushed back and guided the crew members to safety. Shortly thereafter, the first of a series of four explosions occurred, and Captain Brennan was struck in the ankles. When he observed another crew member near the aircraft, Captain Brennan, once again disregarding his own well being, made an immediate rescue. The exceptional courage displayed by captain Brennan was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.