AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  -

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Sergeant Robert L. Harshberger for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty. Sergeant Harshberger distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as observer aboard a scout helicopter in Kien Tuong Province. As the pilot began to follow a partially obscured trail, he spotted an enemy field pack and numerous concealed bunkers. As he began to destroy the bunkers the enemy forces retaliated with a heavy volume of automatic weapons fire. Returnig the fire, Sergeant Harshberger was able to mark several of the larger positions for helicopter gunship strikes. Returning to assess the damage inflicted by the gunships, the scouts were met by another barrage of automatic weapons fire. He again retaliated with a fierce volume of fire while marking enemy positiions for another gunship strike. After the insertion of a reaction force of friendly troops, he fired into the flanks and rear of the enemy positions and was instrumental in preventing the enemy from withdrawing. Sergeant Harshberger's courage and professionalism contributed to the reduction of this enemy headquarters. 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.