The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Frank Barry Ellis (MCSN: 0-84468), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Pilot with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron TWO HUNDRED SIXTY-FIVE (HMM-265), Marine Aircraft Group Sixteen, First Marine Aircraft Wind in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 14 January 1967, Major Ellis launched as Flight Leader of six CH-46A helicopters assigned to transport 160 Marines of Company C, First Battalion, First Marines from Hoi An on a company size attack against a Viet Cong force near the village of Ban Lanh. Preparatory air strikes on the zone were only partially effective, although a smoke screen was successfully laid down. On the first approach to the landing zone, Major Ellis fearlessly led his flight through intense hostile automatic weapons fire which was considerably reduced by the helicopters’ suppressive fire, however, when the aircraft touched down, the small arms and mortar fire increased. Realizing that the company needed all its available forces to continue the battle, Major Ellis immediately returned to Hoi An, loaded the aircraft and returned with the second wave of troops. Demonstrating exceptional airmanship, he skillfully maneuvered his flight to avoid enemy fire and to provide maximum suppressive fire during the landing. Having completed the insertion, he returned with his flight when a retraction mission was requested. The extraction was delayed several times because the enemy force prevented the company from reaching the landing zone and, since a night retraction would be extremely difficult and the weather was rapidly deteriorating, it was determined that an immediate return was imperative. After intense close air support and fire suppression had been accomplished, Major Ellis twice more led his flight through increasing hostile fire into the zone. In each instance, the Marines’ advance to the helicopters was slowed down by heavily mounting opposition, knee deep water and mud in the rice paddies, however, disregarding his own safety and despite damage to his aircraft, Major Ellis steadfastly remained in the landing zone until all the aircraft were loaded and the extractions could be completed. Throughout the day, his calm presence of mind and outstanding professionalism instilled in his aircraft commanders and crews the confidence and determination necessary for the success of the operation which was accomplished with a minimum number of casualties and relatively minor damage to the aircraft. By his uncommon courage, superior leadership and unswerving devotion to duty at great personal risk, Major Ellis was an inspiration to all who served with him an upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.