The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of 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 15 September 1951. Volunteering to perform a night evacuation mission, Major McFarland skillfully maneuvered his light, unarmed helicopter over dangerous terrain and expertly executed a safe landing at a forward position in the face of intense hostile fire, although guided to the pick-up point only by voice radio commands and intermittent flashing of small hand lamps. Learning that the critically wounded infantryman could not survive unless taken directly to a field hospital, he quickly loaded the injured man aboard the helicopter and delivered him safely to the medical aid facilities. By his superb airmanship, courage and selfless efforts in behalf of another, Major McFarland served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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.