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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Robert S. Hartless for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller near Dalat, Republic of Vietnam on 16 April 1970. On that date, Lieutenant Hartless flew in support of a friendly unit which was under attack from a hostile gun position. Despite intense anti-aircraft fire, mountainous terrain and low clouds Lieutenant Hartless skillfully directed tactical air power resulting in the complete destruction of the gun position. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Hartless reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.