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 Douglas R. Smith, United States Air Force, for heroism involving the voluntary risk of his life while attached to the 19th Bombardment Group, (Medium), FIFTH Air Force, in the rescue of an airman on 15 November 1950 at Kadena Air Base. On that date, Captain Smith was on the scene of an aircraft accident on the runway. When he arrived at the spot, the flight engineer of the bomber was found in a semi-conscious condition, lying approximately 15 feet from the burning aircraft and unable to move. The airman was in great danger from the excessive heat, detonation of incendiary-type bombs and 50 caliber ammunition. Although realizing this, Captain Smith disregarded his own safety and assisted in the rescue of the injured crew member. Captain Smith’s act made it possible to remove the flight engineer from the danger area to safety, where medical aid was administered. Captain Smith’s courage, quick-thinking and devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.