The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Arthur Richard Bancroft (MCSN: 0-35520), United States Marine Corps, for gallantry in action while serving as a helicopter pilot in Marine Observation Squadron SIX (VMO-6), by successfully rescuing a carrier based pilot who had been shot down by the enemy. On 17 September 1950, Lieutenant Bancroft received information that a carrier based pilot had been shot down approximately three miles south and east of Seoul, Korea. Without thought of the personal danger involved in landing his helicopter deep in enemy territory Lieutenant Bancroft immediately volunteered to attempt a rescue. While en route to the scene of the crash, he was provided an escort of two fighter planes. Nearing his destination he was forced to circle while his escort destroyed a gun position and distracted enemy troops which were near the crashed aircraft. During the action Lieutenant Bancroft continued on with his mission, landed near the location of the enemy troops, and effected a successful rescue. Due to his actions the downed pilot was saved from certain capture by the enemy. His display of outstanding courage and complete disregard for personal safety in the face of great danger to himself reflected great credit on himself and the Naval Services of the United States.