AWARDED DFC: 3
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  F-4C

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Robert E. Kinne for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an F-4C Aircraft Commander near Phong Bia, North Vietnam on 18 March 1966. On this date, Captain Kinne exemplified outstanding strike planning, aerial leadership, and exceptional initiative in application of professional knowledge and professional skill. Several aircraft had been shot down on previous sorties in attempting to destroy the well-defended Phong Bia Highway Bridge. Through careful and extensive intelligence study, Captain Kinne planned this detailed strike mission. With complete disregard for his own life, Captain Kinne acquired the target, flew the planned tactics while under ground fire, and destroyed this vital transportation facility. This particular bridge, on Route A1A, links one of the main supply routes to facilitate the infiltration of Viet Cong and their vital supplies into the South. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Kinne reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

2.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Robert E. Kinne for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an Aircraft Commander of an F-4C aircraft on a highly classified reconnaissance mission over North Vietnam on 4 April 1966. Although exposing himself to the constant possibility of heavy ground fire and surface-to-air missiles, Captain Kinne completed the required reconnaissance mission with maximum results. The outcome of this specific mission has direct effect on future tactics to be employed and military decisions to be implemented in the future. Captain Kinne displayed exceptional initiative in the application of professional knowledge and skill. Captain Kinne exemplified diligence, perseverance, and courage far exceeding that expected of an aircrew member. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Kinne reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

3.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Robert E. Kinne for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an F-4C Aircraft Commander on a reconnaissance mission over North Vietnam on 18 June 1966. On that date, although exposing himself to the constant possibility of hostile ground fire and surface-to-air missiles, Captain Kinne completed the required reconnaissance mission with maximum results. The outcome of this specific mission has direct effect on future tactics to be employed and political/military decisions to be implemented in the future. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Kinne reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.