Staff Sergeant John H. Stemple distinguished himself by heroism involving voluntary risk of life near Babelthaut Island, Palau, Trust Territories, on 25 February 1965.  On that date, Sergeant Stemple volunteered to jump to the assistance of twenty-four crew members aboard the Filipino tanker Mount Arayat which had run aground on a reef and was breaking up, despite the knowledge that he might be seriously injured in heavy seas or dragged over the reef, and aware of the constant danger of fire.  The calmness and self-assurance of Sergeant Stemple prevented the crew from abandoning the tanker and resulted in their rescue without injury or loss of life.  By his courageous action and humanitarian regard for his fellow man, Sergeant Stemple has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.