The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major (Infantry), [then Captain] Robert G. Shain (ASN: 0-87369), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight on 28 April 1966 while serving as Aircraft Commander aboard a UH-1B helicopter supporting an airmobile combat assault in hostile territory. His mission was to insert a Pathfinder Team into a landing zone prior to the main assault element. During the approach, Major Shain’s aircraft was suddenly subjected to savage automatic weapons fire from Viet Cong positions near the landing zone. Heedless of the bullets tearing into his ship, he continued into the insecure clearing, inserted the Pathfinders and ascended. Hovering over the landing zone, he quickly advised the main lift element to alter its course in order to avoid the enemy gunners. When he was informed by the ground team that one of its members have been wounded, Major Shain fearlessly descended through the withering enemy fire and picked up the seriously wounded soldier. After refueling, he skillfully piloted his damaged helicopter back to the landing zone and continued to support the assault unit, repeatedly landing in the bullet swept area. As soon as the Pathfinder element had completed its reconnaissance he again exposed himself to raking Viet Cong fire and successfully extracted the team. Major Shain’s outstanding flying ability and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.