The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major John David Carlton (MCSN: 0-71434), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of Marine Composite Reconnaissance Squadron ONE, attached to Task Force SEVENTY-SEVEN, and the pilot of an electronic warfare jet aircraft during combat operations against the enemy on 16 April 1972. During the conduct of a highly important classified electronic warfare mission, Major Carlton’s aircraft was subjected to multiple missile firings. With little defense available except his own intelligent split-second judgment, Major Carlton skillfully evaded all missiles and maintained his critical orbit over the lethal defense network for over one and one-half hours. The success of the mission and the safe egress of the strike force he supported were directly attributable to his persistent and skilful airmanship. Major Carlton’s courageous performance in the face of great personal risk and fearless devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.