Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Robert Franchot Frishman (NSN: 0-6934339/642530), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 24 October 1967 as a Pilot in Fighter Squadron ONE HUNDRED FIFTY ONE (VF-151), embarked in U.S.S. CORAL SEA (CVA-43). Lieutenant Frishman was the wingman in a division of four F-4B aircraft assigned as fighter protection for a major air-wing strike against the highly strategic and heavily defended Phuc Yen air field near Hanoi, North Vietnam. When the lead aircraft in his division was hit by a surface-to-air missile, Lieutenant Frishman immediately joined on his leader’s wing while calmly advising him of the extensive damage to his aircraft and the danger from fire. In the face of constant and unrelenting enemy anti-aircraft fire along with the threat from airborne enemy aircraft, Lieutenant Frishman remained with his stricken leader, rendering all possible assistance as well as keeping search and rescue forces advised of the nature and extent of the emergency. His exceptional courage and devotion to duty in the face of grave personal danger were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Prisoner of War Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Division:

    Prisoner of War (North Vietnam)

    Action Date:

    October 24, 1967 – August 5, 1969

    Lieutenant Robert Franchot Frishman (NSN: 0-6934339/642530), United States Navy, was held as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from October 24, 1967 until his release on August 5, 1969.