The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major [then Captain] Henry L. Eisenson (MCSN: 0-78516), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Pilot with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-THREE (HMM-163), Ninth Marine Amphibious Brigade, in connection with operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On the afternoon of 12 October 1967, Major Eisenson launched as Section Leader of a flight of two UH-34 helicopters assigned a priority medical evacuation mission. When he received a request for emergency assistance from Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, which was operating south of Quang Tri City, he quickly directed another section of helicopters to assume his original mission and unhesitatingly led his section to Company C’s position. Upon arrival, Major Eisenson, disregarding the enemy small-arms fire, resolutely hovered his aircraft above the friendly position while informing the Marines which obstacles had to be cleared to provide a landing zone. He skillfully maneuvered his aircraft, brushing aside vegetation and cutting saplings with his rotor blades as he came in. To dispose of the last remaining obstacle, he utilized his right main landing gear to fell a tree. With only the main landing gear on the ground, he then expeditiously embarked three seriously wounded Marines and lifted from the zone. Assisted by his copilot, he ably maintained control of the damaged helicopter and rapidly delivered the casualties to a hospital ship. After landing aboard the U.S.S. OKINAWA and being informed that a replacement helicopter was unavailable, Major Eisenson fearlessly resumed the mission in his damaged aircraft. Disregarding a malfunctioning radio and enemy automatic weapons fire directed at his aircraft, he unhesitatingly made two additional trips into the hazardous landing zone, ensuring that all the remaining casualties were evacuated. His exceptional ability and sincere concern for the welfare of his comrades were an inspiration to all who served with him and saved the lives of numerous wounded Marines. By his courage, inspiring leadership, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Major Eisenson upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.