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 Robert William Mix, United States Air Force, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, on 13 February 1987. On that date, Sergeant Mix led the rescue crew in unhesitatingly entering a burning KC-135 aircraft to search for the four aircrew members. Hampered by smoke, the absence of light and poor communication, he was forced to evacuate when the cargo deck floor caved in and three fuel cell explosions occurred. Sergeant Mix entered the flight deck in a valiant rescue and engine shut down attempt, but was again driven back by worsening conditions. Notified of the aircrew’s safe evacuation, he redirected his efforts toward assisting those fire fighters downed by a fourth major explosion. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellowman, Sergeant Mix has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.