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 Sergeant David F. Washko (ASN: US-52689973), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 3d Squadron, 17th Air Cavalry, 1st Aviation Brigade, in the Republic of Vietnam on 3 September 1968. Sergeant Washko distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as the observer aboard an OH-6A helicopter. Sergeant Washko received a distress call from a pilot of an F-4 jet fighter, which was shot down while supporting friendly ground operations. He quickly located the injured and bleeding pilot suspended from his parachute in the midst of a dense bamboo jungle infested by enemy forces. After his ship had descended as low as possible into the dense bamboo, he jumped out and struggled through the thick under brush to the helpless pilot. After reaching the wounded pilot, he quickly cut him down from the tree and administered first aid. He then devised a sling in which the pilot could be pulled through the trees by use of a cable, but the cable proved to be too short. He tried to drag the pilot by the parachute harness through the brush, but because of the heavy growth was unable to do so. When a rescue party arrived, he took command and led the way through the bamboo, breaking trail for the group and lying down so others could walk on his back in order to reach the hovering helicopter. Throughout the daring rescue, Sergeant Washko was exposed to enemy fire, yet he reacted with courage and professionalism. As a result, the pilot was saved. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.