The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ensign Robert M. Burnell, United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while participating in an aerial flight against enemy forces attempting to attack a U.S. Task Force west of the Mariana Islands on 19 June 1944. By continually pressing home attack after attack, he succeeded in shooting down three enemy planes and damaging four others, thus contributing greatly to the eventual diversion and destruction of the enemy force. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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Awards Received
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States NavyRank:
Lieutenant, Junior GradeAction Date:
June 11 – October 24, 1944
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Robert M. Burnell, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Pacific Area from 11 June 1944 to 24 October 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Burnell completed twenty flights in a combat area where enemy anti-aircraft fire was expected to be effective or where enemy aircraft patrols usually occurred. His conduct throughout has distinguished him among those performing duties of the same character.