Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Warrant Officer One (WO-1)

    Regiment:

    1st Aviation Brigade

    Action Date:

    April 1, 1968

    Headquarters, 1st Aviation Brigade, General Orders No. 6860 (October 4, 1968)

    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 Warrant Officer One (WO-1) Dale A. Dobbs (ASN: W-3157304), United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 189th Assault Helicopter Company, 1st Aviation Brigade on 1 April 1968. Warrant Officer Dobbs distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander of a troop carrying helicopter supporting infantry units at a besieged fire base west of Polei Kleng. Warrant Officer Dobbs made seven air sorties into the fire base, delivering command personnel and supplies and removing wounded. Each approach and departure was accompanied by highly accurate enemy mortar fire that he skillfully evaded in all but one instance, when enemy shells landed close to the ship. Nevertheless, he bravely continued the mission throughout the day. That night, when elements of the same unit had made heavy contact with the enemy, he fearlessly volunteered to deliver vital munitions and rations. Landing in a bomb crater surrounded by dense jungle, Warrant Officer Dobbs successfully supplied the stranded unit under the noses of the enemy. Through his courage an impeccable judgment, he successfully completed every dangerous mission. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.