Sergeant John W. Stephens distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Pararescue Specialist in Southeast Asia on 4 January 1973.   On that date, Sergeant Stephens job knowledge, outstanding airmanship, and continuous professionalism, displayed under the constant threat of hostile fire and adverse weather conditions, immeasurably aided the 40^th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron in the accomplishment of the rescue mission.   The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Stephens reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.