The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant George Joseph O’Connell, Jr. (MCSN: 0-90982), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Pilot with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-THREE (HMM-163), Marine Aircraft Group Sixteen, FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 5 March 1967, First Lieutenant O’Connell launched as Wingman of a section of two UH-34D helicopters on an emergency medical evacuation mission to evacuate nineteen seriously wounded Marines. Displaying uncommon courage, resourcefulness and exceptional airmanship, he skillfully maneuvered his aircraft into a hazardous landing zone on two occasions despite adverse weather conditions and intense enemy fire. On his first approach into the landing zone, the aircraft received heavy enemy fire which damaged the aircraft’s control system and forced him to return to Dong Ha where the damaged helicopter was replaced. Launched in another aircraft, he returned to the besieged area and, while commencing an approach to the landing zone, began sustaining hits throughout the engine compartment and cockpit area which wounded himself and his copilot. As he continued his approach, enemy fire shattered the windscreen and severed his helmet cords which restricted his visibility and eliminated all means of communication. Undaunted by the perilous situation and with complete disregard for his painful wounds, he completed the evacuation mission and safely returned to the air base at Dong Ha. By his daring initiative, determination under extremely hazardous flying conditions and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, First Lieutenant O’Connell upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.