Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Captain

    Batallion:

    Marine Observation Squadron 6 (VMO-6)

    Regiment:

    Marine Aircraft Group 16 (MAG-16)

    Division:

    1st Marine Aircraft Wing

    Action Date:

    February 16, 1968

    Authority: Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Captain Bobby Frank Galbreath (MCSN: 0-70303), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Pilot with Marine Observation Squadron SIX (VMO-6), in the Republic of Vietnam on 16 February 1968. Captain Galbreath launched as Wingman in a flight of two armed UH-1E helicopters diverted to support the emergency extraction of an eight-man reconnaissance team which was heavily engaged with a numerically superior North Vietnamese Army force six miles northwest of Dong Ha. Arriving over the designated area, he immediately initiated his attack and made repeated strafing runs on the enemy positions. Although five Marines had been recovered, subsequent attempts to rescue the remaining men failed due to a heavy volume of ground fire which had seriously damaged three helicopters. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Captain Galbreath volunteered to evacuate the surrounded men. Fully aware of the extreme danger to himself and his crew, he unhesitatingly commenced his approach, but was forced to abandon the landing when his aircraft sustained several hits. Completely disregarding his own safety, he initiated his second approach and skillfully maneuvered his aircraft through the hostile fire into the landing zone. Ignoring the intense fire which was striking his aircraft, he remained in the fire swept area while the men embarked. Lifting from the hazardous zone, his helicopter was struck by a burst of enemy fire and crashed, mortally wounding Captain Galbreath. By his courage, bold initiative and selfless devotion to duty, he inspired all who served with him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.