The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Warrant Officer One (WO-1) Robert G. Dawson (ASN: W-3155857), United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 334th Armed Helicopter Company, 1st Aviation Brigade. Warrant Officer Dawson distinguished himself while serving as aircraft commander of the command ship and fire team leader of a light fire team on a combat operation in the Republic of Vietnam. His team was directed to provide illumination and additional air cover at the site of a downed aircraft. Two crewmembers of the downed ship were stranded while trying to recover the downed aircraft’s armament systems. Due to intense enemy fire, all attempts to rescue them had been unsuccessful. Warrant Officer Dawson volunteered to attempt the rescue. While approaching the disabled craft he was caught in a crossfire from automatic weapons. With little illumination and with automatic weapons fire completely surrounding him, he held his position until the crewmembers were safely aboard the aircraft. His outstanding flying ability and superb display of professionalism saved the lives of two men. 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.