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 Third Class Charles N. Wilson, Jr., United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Detachment 2, 9393d Technical Unit, White Sands Proving Ground, New Mexico, in action near El Paso, Texas, on 25 March 1956. Specialist Wilson was traveling along Airport Road in an automobile with a comrade when the car had to stop abruptly to avoid collision with a plane coming off the runway. Upon observing the aircraft crashing Specialist Wilson immediately jumped from the car and ran to the scene of the accident. With utter disregard for his personal safety he unhesitatingly entered the flaming wreckage and found the pilot in flames from the waist down. Although receiving minor first degree burns on his arms and face Specialist Wilson kicked aside the flaming debris and managed to grab hold of the pilot’s parachute harness and drag him to safety. His prompt and courageous action in the face of grave personal danger undoubtedly saved the pilot from certain death. The heroism and ability to act in an emergency as displayed by Specialist Wilson reflect great credit on himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service.