The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Richard Romeo Vottero (MCSN: 647734), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Pilot in Marine Attack Squadron THREE HUNDRED TWENTY-THREE (VMA-323), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 5 August 1952. Participating in the rescue of a downed Marine aviator deep in hostile territory, Master Sergeant Vottero escorted the rescue helicopter by the most direct route possible because of the proximity of enemy troops to the helpless pilot and oncoming darkness, although it meant exposing himself to intense fire from hostile anti-aircraft positions. After the rescue had been completed, the pilot of the helicopter stated that his plane’s fuel supply was low and requested a direct outbound course over which he could fly at low altitude. Although his own plane was low on fuel and flying ahead of and below the helicopter, Master Sergeant Vottero immediately set a minimum altitude course, subjecting himself to intense barrages of enemy fire that rocked his aircraft. By his outstanding courage, skill and steadfast devotion to duty, Master Sergeant Vottero was largely responsible for the success of the mission and the rescue of a fellow pilot from certain capture by the enemy, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.