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 One Robert D. Russell for heroism while participating in aerial flight as evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam. Warrant Officer Russell distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 1 September 1970 while serving as Pilot with Company B, 123d Aviation Battalion. On that date, Warrant Officer Russell was flying a Light Observation Helicopter conducting a visual reconnaissance mission in the vicinity of Nghia Hann when it came under attack by an unknown size enemy force. After the initial burst of hostile fire, Warrant Officer Russell unhesitatingly made several low altitude flights over the area in order to pinpoint the enemy emplacements for supporting gunships. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he expertly maneuvered his ship above the enemy-infested terrain until his aircraft was hit by a concentration of hostile fire and forced to land. Following the downed crew’s evacuation, Warrant Officer Russell returned to station in a second observation helicopter to assist a friendly element inserted to gather intelligence data. Despite the extreme danger involved, he adroitly maneuvered his ship to enable the crew to provide fire support for the friendly unit when the supporting gunship was forced to disengage. Displaying outstanding flying skill, Warrant Officer Russell repeatedly exposed himself to the devastating volumes of enemy automatic weapons fire until the aircraft sustained extensive battle damage from a command-detonated mine. Through his timely and courageous actions, he was instrumental to the success of the mission and minimized friendly casualties. Warrant Officer Russell’s personal heroism, professional competence, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 23d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.