[1] He enlisted in the United States Navy on June 26, 1975[2] and was initially assigned to Naval Station Treasure Island working for port services as an engine specialist.

According to his Navy Cross citation, he left a position of safety to assist team members under heavy enemy fire.

Chief Petty Officer McFaul's platoon was an element of Naval Special Warfare Task Unit PAPA, whose crucial mission was to deny to General Noriega and his associates the use of Paitilla Airfield as an avenue of escape from Panama.

After insertion from sea by rubber raiding craft, Golf Platoon was patrolling toward their objective, a hangar housing General Noriega's aircraft, when they were engaged by heavy small arms fire.

Chief Petty Officer McFaul's heroic actions and courage under fire saved his teammate's life and were an inspiration for other acts of heroism as the assault force prevailed in this decisive battle.