AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Korea
MODEL:  C-47

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Robert Davis Childre for extraordinary skill, devotion to duty, and inspirational leadership, while participating in aerial flight on 8 April 1952. As pilot of an unarmed, unescorted C-47 cargo type aircraft, he flew a night intelligence deep penetration mission of extreme importance to the United Nations effort in Korea. His target lay in northeast Korea, directly under surveillance of an enemy radar screen known to be operating in that area. In order to complete his mission, it was necessary to navigate on a radar steer over the ocean above an undercast and up and down valleys using the mountains as a defense against radar detection. He then proceeded back over hazardous route of entry to his home base. His superior flying skill and devotion to duty enabled him to carry forward to accomplishment this extremely difficult and dangerous mission. Lieutenant Childre's leadership and devotion to duty has brought great credit upon himself, the military service and the United States Air Force.