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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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Major Robert Ball (AFSN: 0-28743/0-2248558), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 20th Tactical Air Support Squadron as Forward Air Controller directing fighter aircraft in Quang Tri Province, Republic of Vietnam, on 13 May 1968. On that date, Major Ball flew his O-1 aircraft in close support of friendly ground troops attempting to assault an entrenched and well concealed opposing hostile force. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Major Ball repeatedly made low passes over hostile lines to draw fire in order to pinpoint hostile gun positions. The courage, devotion to duty and unselfish disregard for his personal safety immensely contributed to the success of the operation and reduction of friendly losses. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Ball has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Major

    Action Date:

    June 9, 1968

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Major Robert Ball (AFSN: 0-28743/0-2248558), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Forward Air Controller near Gio Linh, Republic of Vietnam on 9 June 1968. On that date, Major Ball was flying his O-1 Bird Dog aircraft in support of friendly ground forces engaged in an assault on hostile forces. Due to heavy hostile ground fire, the friendly forces were pinned down and couldn’t move. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Major Ball made low, repeated passes over the unfriendly positions to draw their hostile fire and expose themselves so that their positions could be located. By his heroism and devotion to duty, Major Ball has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.