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 Sergeant Gary D. Knoll, United States Air Force, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life at Takhli Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, on 7 November 1972. On that date, F-111A Aircraft number 67074 developed a raging fire in the right brake as it was taxiing back from its combat mission over North Vietnam. With complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Knoll entered the flaming brake area along with three other noncommissioned officers and after several attempts, managed to finally extinguish the blaze which was being fed by leaking hydraulic fluid spraying onto red hot metal. Sergeant Knoll’s actions not only aided in saving the aircraft and its air crew but also countless other lives and aircraft in the very near area. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Sergeant Knoll reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.