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 Staff Sergeant Edward M. Baker (AFSN: AF-13336614), United States Air Force, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States while serving heroism involving voluntary risk of line on 20 May 1959 at Edwards Air Force Base, California. On that date, he observed that a Convair Jet Airliner caught on fire while taxiing on the runway. The crew was unaware of the emergency, and was given the stop and cut signal. Still unaware of the emergency, the crew made not attempt to stop the engines or abandon the aircraft. Despite the possibility of explosion, Sergeant Baker unhesitatingly rushed to the scene and assisted in extinguishing the fire. His efforts prevented the possible destruction of a vital test aircraft and serous injury to its crew. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Sergeant Baker reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.