The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Robert Alfred Lodge, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as an F-105 Pilot of the 357th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Takhli Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, in action at Thai Ngyen, North Vietnam on 13 June 1967. On that date, while on a strike against an important facility, Lieutenant Lodge’s aircraft was hit by flak before reaching the target. Disregarding his own safety, he courageously rolled in and continued through heavy fire, sustaining a second direct hit. Even though a fuel tank exploded and aircraft control was difficult, Lieutenant Lodge completed his delivery, destroyed the target, and successfully landed his damaged aircraft. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Lodge has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.