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

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Robert F. Wetherbie, Major, Artillery, United States Army, 179th Aslt Spt Hel Co, Republic of Vietnam, for action dated 13 June 1968 for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty: Major Wetherbie distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander aboard a chinook aircraft involved in the medical evacuation of the crew of a downed UH-1H aircraft. Even though the evacuation area was infested with known enemy positions, it was necessary for him to hover his aircraft amidst the dense jungle for long periods of time while the men were winched aboard his ship. Exposed and extremely vulnerable to enemy fire, which would have meant aircraft destruction, Major Wetherbie remained in this position for nearly two hours. His devoted and unselfish application of his unequaled skills resulted in the successful evacuation of all the injured personnel. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.