The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to Captain Richard Joseph Robbins (ASN: 0-3037526), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an A-1E pilot of the 602d Fighter Squadron (Commando), Bien Hoa Air Base, Republic of Vietnam on 12 November 1965. On that date, Captain Robbins’ flight struck a superior force of Viet Cong who had trapped elements of the 1st Infantry Division. Attacking against unusually intense and accurate ground fire that included automatic weapons, small arms, and air bursting mortars, Captain Robbins played a key role in an outstanding air victory. Although credited with the majority of the Viet Cong’s estimated 348 killed, the total significance can be best realized by the Army’s statement that, “The issue was somewhat in doubt until your help arrived. We Salute you.” The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Robbins reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.