AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  UH-1H

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Robert M. Russell, Specialist Four, United States Army, Company A, 9th Aviation Battalion, 9th Infantry Division, for heroism while participating in aerial flight, as evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty in the Republic of Vietnam: Specialist Four Russell distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions on 9 May 1969 while serving as a Door Gunner with Company A, 9th Aviation Battalion on an air mobile assault. During a large engagement with an estimated company of Viet Cong, the aircraft, on which Specialist Four Russell was riding, came under intense hostile fire. When he noticed that the Crew Chief was wounded, along with several other soldiers, Specialist Four Russell risked his life to aid them, picking up an M-16 as he left his door gun in order to continue the suppressive fire necessary to get the aircraft out of its perilous situation. Specialist Four Russell’s outstanding initiative and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 9th Infantry Division and the United States Army.