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 Master Sergeant Mark E. Snyder, United States Air Force, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life at Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, District of Columbia, on the evening of 20 June 1988. On that date a speedboat experienced a major engine explosion at the Bolling Marina, engulfing the boat in flames. Disregarding his own safety, Master Sergeant Snyder immediately maneuvered the craft he was piloting to within ten feet of the speedboat, now consumed by an inflammable liquid fire. Master Sergeant Snyder, despite the hazard of the burning boat and 2,000 gallons of fuel nearby, hooked his anchor t the burning speedboat. He then towed the distressed vessel toward the open water of the marina., out of danger, until the fire burned through the rope attached to his anchor. Firemen responded minutes later to the blaze credit Master Sergeant Snyder with slowing the progress of the fire, allowing firemen to secure the marine fuel supply system without incident. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Master Sergeant Snyder reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.