Airman First Class Ray A. Cooper distinguished himself by heroism involving voluntary risk of life near the intersection of Kanekaplei Street and Ala Wai Boulevard, Honolulu, Hawaii, on 17 August 1973.  On that date, Airman Cooper witnessed a car ahead of him in traffic jump the curb and land in the Ala Wai Canal.  With complete disregard for his own safety, Airman Cooper immediately jumped into the canal and pulled the panicky driver, a woman who could not swim, out of the window of the rapidly sinking vehicle and brought her safely to shore where he administered first aid until help arrived.  By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellowman, Airman Cooper has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.