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 Sergeant Ray R. Matyiasik, United States Air Force, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy, while working in the armament section of the 371st Bombardment Squadron, 307th Bombardment Wing, Medium. On 18 February 1951, a leaking variable delay fuse was discovered on a 500 pound bomb in the bomb bay of a B-29 aircraft. As Sergeant Matyiasik labored to unload the bomb, the cable of the bomb hoist broke, dropping the bomb into its cradle from the height of about five feet. He immediately hoisted the cradle onto the bomb dolly so that it could be removed a safe distance from personnel and the aircraft. A short distance from his B-29, the bomb rolled from its cradle to the ground. Not knowing at what moment it might detonate Sergeant Matyiasik without hesitation reloaded the bomb on its cradle and removed it to a safe disposal point. At the risk of his life, he saved an aircraft and the lives of other personnel in the vicinity. By his outstanding courage, professional skill and devotion to duty, Sergeant Matyiasik reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.