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 Warrant Officer Edwin W. Robinson for heroism while participating in aerial flight as evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam on 23 March 1969. Warrant Officer Robinson distinguished himself while serving as an aircraft commander west of Hue, Republic of Vietnam. He was flying the Command and Control helicopter for the 2d Battalion, 501st Infantry, when notification of a downed Forward Air Controller was received. He flew to the area, and after a brief search, was able to locate the downed aircraft in the thick jungles. He then moved the helicopter into the area so the Battalion Commander could mark the location with smoke. At this time, his aircraft took enemy small arms fire, but he did not hesitate, and calmly waited until the target was marked before he moved away. A medical evacuation helicopter and a rescue ship attempted to extract the downed pilot, but were driven off by the hostile ground fire. He then flew his ship into the area again to provide suppressive fire and mark the area with smoke again. On five different occasions, he flew his helicopter into the area to mark the target, each time receiving ground fire with numerous hits on the aircraft. Without regard for his own safety, he kept on station until the downed pilot was finally extracted. Warrant Officer Robinson's outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.