The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Rolland Melvin Dalbey (MCSN: 0-57291), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-FIVE (HMM-165), Marine Aircraft Group Thirty-Six, FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 26 May 1967 during Operation UNION II, First Lieutenant Dalbey launched as Helicopter Aircraft Commander in a flight of eight CH-46 transport helicopters assigned an assault landing mission east of Nui Lac Son. Displaying exceptional aeronautical skill and courage, he flew his aircraft into the battle zone on three assault waves despite the increasing intensity of the hostile fire that damaged his helicopter and reduced the flight to two operational aircraft. Having become Flight Leader after the second wave, he exhibited outstanding leadership, sound judgment and composure under fire as he directed the landings in the fire-swept area. After debarking the troops on the fourth wave, he embarked three seriously wounded Marines and had lifted out of the zone only a short distance when he received an urgent call to evacuate additional casualties. Undaunted by the heavy volume of Viet Cong fire, he courageously returned to the battle area an daringly landed near the hostile positions in order to expedite the embarkation of the wounded. Despite the enemy fire that repeatedly hit his helicopter, he steadfastly remained in the area until it became apparent that the ground troops and injured Marines would be unable to move because of the vicious fire. Forced to lift off, First Lieutenant Dalbey had flown only a short distance when he realized his aircraft could not remain airborne due to extensive battle damage. Demonstrating exceptional skill and presence of mind, he maneuvered his helicopter to a landing in the embattled zone. Immediately directing his crew to dismantle their two machine guns, he assisted in carrying weapons, ammunition and essential equipment to another aircraft that had landed within 125 feet of his position. Although painfully wounded in his arm, First Lieutenant Dalbey courageously led his crew on two more occasions across the open area between the two aircraft to successfully evacuate the injured men. Due largely to his composure under fire and fearless action, he was undoubtedly instrumental in saving his fellow Marines from further injury or possible death. By his superior airmanship, bold leadership and selfless devotion to duty at great personal risk, First Lieutenant Dalbey upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.