AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Vietnam
MODEL:  A-4E

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Bobby G. Butcher for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as a Pilot with Marine Attack Squadron 311, Marine Aircraft Group Twelve, First Marine Aircraft Wing in connection with operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. On the night of 20 June 1967, Captain Butcher launched as Wingman in a flight of two A-4E aircraft on a mission in support of a Marine reconnaissance team which was dangerously low of ammunition and in danger of being overrun by a numerically superior Viet Cong force approximately twenty-one miles south of DaNang. Upon arrival over the target area, Captain Butcher was guided by tracer rounds from the Tactical Air Controller (Airborne) and made an identification run to pinpoint the team's location. Realizing that extreme accuracy would be required in the delivery of his ordnance due to the proximity of enemy and friendly positions, he unhesitatingly commenced low-altitude bomb runs against the Viet Cong emplacements. Demonstrating exemplary airmanship, Captain Butcher repeatedly maneuvered his aircraft through heavy enemy ground fire and, despite total darkness and the rugged mountain terrain, delivered his ordnance with unerring accuracy, forcing the enemy to withdraw. His bold initiative and outstanding professional skill were an inspiration to all who served with him and were instrumental in the subsequent successful extraction of the reconnaissance team. Captain Butcher's courage, exceptional aeronautical ability and selfless devotion to duty in the face of extreme personal danger contributed immeasurably to the accomplishment of the hazardous mission and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.