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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 Robert W. Odenheimer, Jr., United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty. Warrant Officer Odenheimer distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as aircraft commander of a helicopter gunship during a mission against enemy heavy-caliber anti-aircraft weapons. Braving the hail of enemy fire, his fire team silenced two of the enemy weapons. Spotting another position, he notified his team leader of this position and rapidly began to engage the new target. While on this rocket strike, a previously silent machine gun delivered accurate fire, hitting the lead ship and scoring numerous hits on his aircraft. Almost immediately the engine and hydraulic system failed. The smoke increased to the point where Warrant Officer Odenheimer directed his copilot to open the front canopy so that he could see his instruments, but even when this had been done, the smoke had increased to such a degree that he still was without visual references. He managed to land the aircraft safely and sustained no additional damage. All this was done while he was fighting off unconsciousness due to smoke inhalation, to which he yielded only after his aircraft came safely to rest. His outstanding skill and courage resulted in saving the lives of his crew. 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.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Warrant Officer

    Action Date:

    Vietnam War
    Citation Courtesy of the Distinguished Flying Cross Society – www.dfcsociety.org

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Warrant Officer Robert W. Odenheimer, Jr., United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty. These men distinguished themselves by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as pilots of armed helicopters during an Allied operation near Kempong Trabek, Cambodia. They were flying wing ships when their troop was directed to provide support for a friendly ground unit in heavy contact. Within minutes, they were delivering an awesome display of firepower on enemy positions. Despite the extremely high volume of enemy fire, they continued to make effective rocket strikes, enabling the ground troops to continue their advance. That afternoon they were instrumental in providing support for the utility helicopters evacuating wounded troops from the area of contact, enabling many of the wounded to quickly reach a nearby aide station. Late in the afternoon, they were instrumental in the elimination of four enemy positions which were prepared as a helicopter trap. Through their bold and aggressive action, scores of positions were destroyed, a sizeable enemy unit was defeated and the ground troops were able to continue their drive through the enemy’s sanctuary. Their actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon themselves, their unit, and the United States Army.