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 Airman First Class Willie D. Hamilton, United States Air Force, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life near Crystal River, Florida, on 23 December 1973. On that date, Airman Hamilton aided in preventing the escape of two suspects who had just shot and killed a Florida Highway Patrolman. With complete disregard for his own safety, and while being fired upon, Airman Hamilton and his companions fired into the suspect’s vehicle tires, gas tank and other areas to prevent the suspects from leaving the area. One suspect attempted to flee on foot and was shot in the ankles. When the other suspect saw the determination of Airman Hamilton in preventing their escape, he immediately surrendered. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Airman Hamilton reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.