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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Robert L. Hite (ASN: 0-417960), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement as Co-Pilot of a B-25 Bomber of the 1st Special Aviation Project (Doolittle Raider Force), while participating in a highly destructive raid on the Japanese mainland on 18 April 1942. Lieutenant Hite with 79 other officers and enlisted men volunteered for this mission knowing full well that the chances of survival were extremely remote, and executed his part in it with great skill and daring. This achievement reflects high credit on himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Prisoner of War Medal

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Air Corps)

    Division:

    Prisoner of War (Japan)

    Action Date:

    March 12, 1942
    NARA Database: Records of World War II Prisoners of War, created, 1942 – 13613

    First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Robert L. Hite (ASN: 0-417960), United States Army Air Forces, was captured by Japanese forces on 18 April 1942, and was held as a Prisoner of War until his release at the end of hostilities on 20 August 1945.