The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Airman’s Medal to Major Merle Royston Friesen, United States Air Force, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life at the Raymond Morris Knudsen (RMK) Beach, Cam Ranh Bay Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, on 20 January 1971. On that date, Major Friesen unhesitatingly swam to the aid of a drowning man. Despite the danger to his own life, he persevered in his humanitarian effort until he had assisted the individual in reaching shore. By his courageopus action and humanitarian regard for his fellowman, Major Friesen has reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.