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 (Infantry) Letcher Crawford, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy at the Mountain Ranger Camp, Dahlonega, Georgia on 21 May 1959. While participating as an observer in an air landed Ranger patrol operation, Major Crawford was a passenger in a helicopter which crashed immediately after takeoff. Despite the fact that he was the most seriously injured of all passengers, he assumed immediate control as senior officer aboard and without hesitation or concern for his own personal safety, successfully evacuated all passengers from the wrecked helicopter. In constant danger of possible explosion and fire, his high sense of duty and unselfish regard for his fellow men ensured that all passengers were out of the aircraft prior to moving himself from an extremely perilous position. It was only after he had cleared the crash area that he realized he himself was injured. Major Crawford’s prompt, courageous actions and presence of mind in this sudden emergency are worthy of emulation, and reflect distinct credit on himself and the military service.