The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Charles L. McMullen, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United States while serving with the 41st Rescue Squadron near Nad E Ali, Afghanistan, on 28 December 2009. On that date, Captain McMullen, as rescue mission commander, led a four ship task force sent at night to rescue one urgent casualty whose injury put the lives of 160 British soldiers in jeopardy. Captain McMullen directed his wingman to recover the injured soldier while he provided protection. On short final, insurgents ambushed his wingman with small arms, heavy machine gun and anti-aircraft artillery fire from 200 meters. Captain McMullen immediately cleared his aerial gunner to engage while ordering his wingman to withdraw. As enemy fire shifted to his aircraft, Captain McMullen flew numerous countermeasure procedures flawlessly to avoid all incoming rounds. When attack assets called the threat neutralized, Captain McMullen led his formation for a second attempt. On short final, his wingman was on the verge of rescuing the soldier, when the enemy engaged them once more; this time, rounds missed their aircraft within 15 feet. Captain McMullen, showing immense fortitude, accelerated and placed his helicopter in the line of fire between his wingman and the incoming rounds, providing them a means to escape. When the enemy fire shifted to his aircraft, he masterfully maneuvered through a steady stream of incoming rounds and denied the enemy a firing solution for two rocket propelled grenades. Knowing the severity of the situation, Captain McMullen decided to make a third attempt, which culminated in the rescue of the casualty and one additional injured soldier. His actions truly demonstrate bravery under fire. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain McMullen has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.