Leland H. Sorensen

The President of the United States takes Pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Leland H. Sorensen, Airman First Class, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as a Pararescue/Recovery Specialist on an HH-53B rescue helicopter in Southeast Asia on 18 January 1969. On that date, Airman Sorensen was a crew member on a helicopter which rescued a seriously injured pilot who had been shot down in a heavily fortified hostile area. Because of the nature of the pilot’s injuries, medical attention was required before he could be moved. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Airman Sorensen unhesitatingly exposed himself to heavy ground fire and descended the helicopter hoist to the injured man. For more than twenty minutes, he treated the injuries of the survivor, until he could finally be safely lifted into the helicopter. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Sorensen has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.