AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  WWII
MODEL:  PB4Y-1

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS to Robert Albert Otto, Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement in aerial flight as Aircrewman of a Patrol Member in Patrol Bombing Squadron One Hundred Sixteen, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of the enemy air base on Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands, on October 12, 1944. When his plane was intercepted by enemy fighters while accompanying another bomber in a search for survivors of a downed squadron plane, Otto aided his pilot in continuing toward his objective despite fighter opposition and contributed to the destruction of six of the eight hostile craft. His skill, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.