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 Lawrence J. Paquette, United States Air Force, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, on 20 May 1993. On that date, during the first Air Combat Command LONGSHOT 93 competition, an F-15E aircraft landed and taxied into the flight line armament area. As the aircraft came to a halt, fuel was observed discharging from the centerline fuel vent. Before corrective action could be taken, the pooled fuel beneath the aircraft suddenly ignited and engulfed the center and rear of the aircraft in flames. Arriving on the scene and with complete disregard for his personal safety, Sergeant Paquette immediately charged in to fight the fire with a Halon fire extinguisher until it was extinguished. Twice the fire reignited and both times Sergeant Paquette re-battled the blaze until finally out. This feat was accomplished despite his knowledge that the aircraft was carrying dangerous munitions items. Sergeant Paquette’s selfless actions and superb professionalism were directly responsible for saving a 45 million dollar aircraft. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Sergeant Paquette reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.