The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Robert L. McFarland (MCSN: 286976), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Second in Command of an Engineer Platoon of Company A, First Battalion, Twentieth Marines (Engineer), FOURTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Saipan, Mariana Islands, on 7 July 1944. Assuming command of his platoon when the platoon leader was wounded and evacuated, Staff Sergeant McFarland subsequently carried out numerous patrols throughout the operation. Seriously wounded by enemy fire during the patrol of a ravine, he gallantly led his men against the Japanese until ordered to withdraw. Courageous and determined in the performance of duty, Staff Sergeant McFarland, despite his own wounds, diligently aided the other casualties up the steep sides of the ravine and, refusing evacuation, continued to lead his platoon with courage and skill throughout the remainder of the campaign. His exemplary leadership, resolute fortitude and unswerving devotion to duty reflect the highest credit on Staff Sergeant McFarland and the United States Naval Service.