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 Second Class John D. Henson, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of the Headquarters Detachment, 9222nd Camp Leroy Johnson, Louisiana, on 5 March 1957, while a passenger on an aircraft which had developed engine trouble over the vicinity of Zuni, New Mexico. In an attempt to make an emergency landing the plane suddenly burst into flames which blocked all but one small escape hatch. As the first person to arrive at the opening, Specialist Second Class Henson, realizing the possibility of his blocking or otherwise delaying the quick and safe exit of his fellow passengers, promptly stepped aside to assist with evacuation of the plane. This unselfish action permitted eight passengers and crew members to escape without injury, but caused him to suffer second and third degree burns on over 20 percent of his body. The heroic action of Specialist Second Class Henson well represents a deed above and beyond the call of duty, and reflects the utmost credit on himself and the United States Army.