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 Technical Sergeant Robert G. Wheeler, United States Air Force, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life 750 miles Southeast of Honolulu, Hawaii, on 27 August 1969. On that date, Sergeant Wheeler, a Pararescue recovery specialist, parachuted into heavy seas at night to give aid to a heart attack victim aboard the merchant ship SS RIDER VICTORY. After an extremely dangerous transfer from a whale boat to the ship, Sergeant Wheeler rendered critically needed medical aid to the patient. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, Sergeant Wheeler has reflected great credit on himself and the United States Air Force.