Navy Federal Credit Union

Robert Porter became a World War II Marine Corps ACE, credited with shooting down FIVE enemy aircraft in aerial combat. He was the only Marine Corps pilot to score aerial victories in both the Corsair and Hellcat fighters. He retired as a Marine Corps Reserve Colonel.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Major

    Batallion:

    Marine Night Fighting Squadron 542 (VMF(N)-542)

    Action Date:

    July 2 – August 15, 1945

    2d Marine Aircraft Wing – SPOT: Serial 1483-A

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Robert Bruce Porter (MCSN: 0-7015), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Fighter Plane and Commanding Officer of Marine Night Fighting Squadron FIVE HUNDRED FORTY-TWO (VMF(N)-542), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of the Ryukyu Islands, from 2 July 1945 to 15 August 1945. Completing his twentieth mission during this period, Major Porter contributed materially to the success of his squadron. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Major

    Batallion:

    Marine Night Fighting Squadron 542 (VMF(N)-542)

    Action Date:

    June 15, 1945

    2d Marine Aircraft Wing – SPOT: Serial 1483-A

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Robert Bruce Porter (MCSN: 0-7015), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Fighter Plane and Commanding Officer of Marine Night Fighting Squadron FIVE HUNDRED FORTY-TWO (VMF(N)-542), during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of the Ryukyu Islands on 15 June 1945. Skillfully pressing home his attack, Major Porter destroyed two hostile aircraft, thereby contributing materially to the success of his squadron. His airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.