Jerry Lee Cloyd

Jerry Lee Cloyd was a soldier in the United States Army from May 1966 to May 1968, who served in the Vietnam war. He is best known for rescuing two men from an aircrash, an incident for which he received the Soldier's Medal.

Cloyd served in the 86th Signal Battalion, 2nd Group, 1st signal Brigade, 05 B20 as a Radio Operator.
For heroism not involving actual conflict with an armed enemy in the Republic of Vietnam:
Private First Class Cloyd distinguished himself by valorous action on June 1,1967 while returning from a resupply mission near Duc Hoa. He saw a helicopter crash into a rice field near the highway as he was returning to his base and immediately dashed to attempt a rescue of the crew. Heedless of the possibility of boobytraps being hidden in the tall grass, he ran across the rice paddy to the flaming wreckage, took a fire extinguisher from the
debris and attempted to put out the blaze, but the extinguisher failed to function. Completely disregarding his
own safety, he tore at the twisted metal and lifted the front of the ship to free the trapped pilots. He quickly carried the injured pilot to safety and returned to assist in moving the co-pilot from the area. The ship exploded moments after he removed the second injured man, and the blast knocked him to the ground. After recovering from the shock wave, he set up a defensive perimeter and helped treat the casualties until rescue helicopters arrived. His unselfish efforts at great risk to his life greatly assisted in saving the victims and comforted them until they were moved to safety. Private First Class Cloyd's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military services and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
Authority: By direction of the President under the provisions of the Act of Congress, approved 2 July 1926.

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