Hosted by PJs in
Vietnam
Last Update:
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Site Mission: Provide Pararescue
and Air Rescue History
Airman's or Soldier's Medal Recipients
Attention to orders. Citation to accompany the award of the Airman's Medal to Senior Airman Alan W. Manuel
Senior Airman Alan W. Manuel distinguished himself by heroism involving voluntary risk of life at Stuttgart Army Air Field, Germany, on 24 June 1977. On that date, Senior Airman Manuel re-entered a burning HH-53 helicopter to aid another pararescueman in saving a crash victim. After escaping the burning aircraft, he heard a summons for help of another pararescueman to extract a victim from the wreckage. Without hesitation, he re-entered the burning aircraft and helped drag the victim to safety. Once clear of the fire, he aided in extinguishing the flames on the victim’s face, hands, and right arm. It was not until medical teams arrived that Senior Airman Manuel noticed the second degree burns that were inflicted on his hands during the rescue. By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellowman, Airman Manuel has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.