The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Specialist Fourth Class Loy A. Wells, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy force. Specialist Fourth Class Wells distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as crew chief of a UH-1B gunship. When his aircraft crashed upon take off from Ban Me Thuot, Specialist Wells, although thrown through the windshield and suffering injuries, immediately came to the aid of the aircraft commander and pilot who were trapped in the wreckage. With fuel spilling all over the aircraft and an engine fire in progress he crawled back into the cockpit area to retrieve the pilots. After removing them to a safe place, he proceeded back to the aircraft and extinguished the engine fire. Specialist Fourth Class Wells then refused medical aid until both seriously injured pilots were on their way to the hospital. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.