AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  C-130A

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain David S. Robinson for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a C-130A Aircraft Commander in Southeast Asia on 27 January 1969. On that date, Captain Robinson’s mission was the Emergency Resupply of critically needed ammunition to the airfield at Phan Thiet, Republic of Vietnam, when his aircraft experienced a severe mechanical malfunction. Captain Robinson shut down one engine and was returning to his home base when a second engine malfunctioned and a flame-out occurred. Despite his extremely heavy gross weight and the explosive nature of the cargo, Captain Robinson demonstrated great personal bravery and a determined application of his knowledge to make a successful two engine landing. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Robinson 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 (First Oak Leaf Cluster) to Captain David S. Robinson for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an Aircraft Commander of a C-130A Aircraft, at Bu Dop, Republic of Vietnam, on the night of 9 November 1969. On that date, Captain Robinson volunteered to attempt a hazardous and previously untried night landing on the extremely short field at Bu Dop to aid in the recovery of a disabled aircraft which would probably have been destroyed if left throughout the night. In the face of heavy hostile ground fire, Captain Robinson made a blacked-out approach over very perilous terrain and successfully completed the mission. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Robinson reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.