The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain David Manville Petteys (MCSN: 0-86421), 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 Wing, in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On 30 June 1967, Captain Petteys launched aboard a CH-46A helicopter as Flight Leader of nine aircraft on a mission to insert a reaction force to rescue survivors and secure the crash site of a downed CH-46A helicopter. Forced to debark the reaction force over a mile from the crash site due to the dense jungle and rugged terrain, Captain Petteys realized it would take more than an hour before the Marines could reach the downed aircraft. Disregarding his own safety, he unhesitatingly volunteered to attempt an extraction of the survivors although his aircraft would be in full view of enemy positions, which were located approximately 150 meters from the extraction point. Arriving over the pickup site, he displayed exemplary airmanship by maintaining a steady hover above the zone for over thirty minutes until seven survivors were hoisted through 100 feet of dense jungle growth and assisted aboard his helicopter. After ensuring that all the men were safely aboard, he attempted to depart the area when his aircraft suddenly came under heavy anti-aircraft fire. Demonstrating exceptional aeronautical ability, Captain Petteys skillfully maneuvered his aircraft through the intense enemy fire and safely departed the hazardous area. His bold initiative and resolute determination were an inspiration to all who served with him and were instrumental in saving the lives of seven Marines. By his steadfast courage, calm professionalism and selfless devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger, Captain Petteys upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.