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 Specialist Fourth Class Robert L. Mingle, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary actions above and beyond the call of duty on 18 June 1969 while serving as a helicopter door gunner with the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date while Specialist Mingle was participating in an aerial reconnaissance operation, nine enemy soldiers were spotted moving below. As it circled the area, the aircraft came under intense hostile automatic weapons fire. Disregarding the enemy fusillade, Specialist Mingle leaned out the door of the helicopter and began placing accurate suppressive fire on the hostile positions. As the enemy resistance increased, the aircraft was suddenly hit by a burst of hostile automatic weapons fire and crashed, fatally injuring Specialist Mingle. Specialist Four Mingle’s outstanding courage and dedication to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.