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 Specialist Fifth Class John E. Schenk (ASN: US-55887104), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States while serving with the 189th Aviation Company (Assault Helicopter), 1st Aviation Brigade, on 2 December 1967. Specialist Schenk distinguished himself by valorous actions at Poloi Klang, Republic of Vietnam. As he was sitting in a helicopter he saw an armed helicopter and another helicopter mesh rotor blades and begin to disintegrate. He raced to the armed helicopter and pulled the crew members out of the wreckage and moved them to safety. He then went back to the stricken aircraft and successfully shut off the engine and prevented a fire from starting. During the entire action he was drenched with fuel and in a situation of almost certain death or grievous injury had a fire occurred. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.