The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Air Force Award) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Robert T. Ritchie, United States Coast Guard, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Aircraft Commander of an HH-3E Helicopter attached to the 37th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron, United States Air Force, in action near Da Nang, republic of Vietnam, on 15 November 1969. On that date. Lieutenant Ritchie’s exemplary knowledge and outstanding airmanship, displayed under extremely hazardous conditions, resulted in the rescue of a United States Navy pilot at night from the South China Sea. After the primary rescue helicopter had experienced engine failure, Lieutenant Ritchie quickly located the survivor and made a night, open sea landing, bringing the survivor quickly and safely aboard. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Ritchie reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” (Air Force Award) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Robert T. Ritchie, United States Coast Guard, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as Aircraft Commander of an HH- 3E Helicopter, attached to the 37th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron, United States Air Force, in action near DaNang, Republic of Vietnam, on 10 December 1969. On that date, Lieutenant Ritchie led a flight of helicopters over heavily defended areas to rescue a United States Air Force pilot. Despite hostile fire, Lieutenant Ritchie persisted in the attempt until the pilot was safely rescued from the midst of the opposing forces. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Ritchie reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Coast Guard.