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 Major (Corps of Engineers), [then Captain] Ray W. McMullen, Jr., United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the 307th Airborne Engineer Battalion, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. On 6 October 1954 while inspecting parking lots in the new division area at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, he observed a C-119 Aircraft crash into an open area near a group of new buildings. Major McMullen arrived at the scene of the crash and with complete disregard for his personal safety entered the flaming wreckage. He discovered a person pinned in the aircraft and with the aid of an unknown civilian removed him from the burning wreckage. After this action Major McMullen reentered the burning aircraft to assist in the rescue of injured personnel and in fighting the fire. The prompt and courageous action of Major McMullen undoubtedly saved lives and reflects distinct credit on himself and the military service.