For extraordinary gallantry in action on 21 November 1970 as a member of an all-volunteer joint United States Army and Air Force raiding force organized by the Joint Chiefs of Staff to conduct a heliborne assault in a heroic effort to rescue United States military personnel held as prisoners of war at Son Tay prison in North Vietnam. Throughout the execution phase of the raid, Captain Meadows, an assault group leader, repeatedly risked his life above and beyond the call of duty in insure the success of the raid. Captain Meadows as a passenger on a helicopter that crash-landed inside the prison compound. After debarking from the crashed helicopter, oblivious of enemy fire and without regard for his personal safety and the risk to his life, he single-handedly cleared the southeast guard tower and two small adjacent buildings. His unhesitating and purposeful action eliminated the enemy threat and enabled his subordinate elements to continue their mission without the danger of small arms fire from those strong points. Immediately thereafter he took up a completely exposed position in the center of the compound where, with the aid of a portable loud speaker, he shouted instructions for the prisoners to follow to expedite their release. This action pinpointed his position. Captain Meadows’ calm leadership under fire and unswerving devotion to duty contributed greatly to the successful execution of the raid. Captain Meadows’ extraordinary gallantry in action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on him and the United States Army.