The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major David W. McFarland (MCSN: 0-11760), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Pilot and Commanding Officer of Marine Observation Squadron SIX (VMO-6), during a rescue mission in hostile territory in Korea on 3 July 1951. Although keenly aware of the grave hazards involved, Major McFarland unhesitatingly volunteered to fly his slow, unarmed helicopter deep into hostile territory in a brave attempt to evacuate two critically wounded Marines who were members of a patrol pinned down by the enemy. Locating his objective in the face of hostile mortar and automatic weapons fire, he landed his aircraft hear the friendly patrol, repeatedly exposed himself to intense enemy ground fire while loading the stricken men aboard the helicopter and immediately took off on his return journey. Although forced to circle over hostile positions in order to gain sufficient altitude to clear a mountain ridge separating him from friendly lines, he skillfully accomplished this dangerous maneuver. By his outstanding courage, brilliant airmanship and selfless efforts in behalf of his fellow Marines, Major McFarland upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.