AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  UH-1H

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Chief Warrant Officer Robert E. Dahlin for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. Warrant Officer Dahlin distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Aircraft Commander during a combat assault near Dak Seang. A light observation helicopter was shot down by intensive enemy fire, and all previous attempts to recover the downed crew had been repulsed by the well-concealed enemy forces. The proposed landing zone was completely open to the enemy's field of fire. Just prior to touchdown the second aircraft into the landing zone received intensive fire and was forced to go around. Warrant Officer Dahlin, disregarding his own safety, unhesitatingly maneuvered his aircraft into the bullet-swept landing site. He calmly dispatched the aero riflemen from his aircraft and, as he began his takeoff, heavy automatic weapons fire struck his main rotor blade. Although this was a grounding condition he voluntarily continued to assist in the operation and in the later extraction of the aero rifle platoon. His extraordinary courage was directly responsible for the successful completion of this hazardous mission. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.