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 Private First Class Alfred L. Howard, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy on the night of 22 February 1957, in the vicinity of Seoul, Korea, when the C-124 aircraft on which he was a passenger developed engine trouble shortly after takeoff and crash-landed on sandbar in the Han River, bursting into flames on impact. Private Howard, with complete disregard for his own life, voluntarily returned to the burning aircraft in search of survivors. He aided in the rescue of an Air Force Sergeant, who was lying near the plane, despite constant danger from the flames and the threat of explosion. After removing the injured man, he continued his search work by helping to load survivors on helicopters that had been sent to the area. His repeated trips to the plane constantly placed his life in peril and the threat of being swept into the freezing water was imminent. The additional danger created by numerous helicopters hovering overhead seeking landing sites posed a threat of grave personal injury. Private Howard continued his heroic efforts until all had been removed to safety. His prompt and courageous action in the face of extreme danger reflect great credit on himself and the United States Army