The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting
The NAVY CROSS to
Major Robert G. Mitchell, United States Marine Corps
For service as set forth in the following
CITATION

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert G. Mitchell (0-70988), Major, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism while serving as a Pilot with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-FIVE, Marine Aircraft Group SIXTEEN, First Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam. On 29 November 1968, during Operation MEADE RIVER, Major Mitchell launched as Flight Leader of a section of four CH-46 transport helicopters assigned the emergency extraction of a reconnaissance team which was heavily engaged with a large hostile force south of DaNang. Despite a heavy volume of enemy fire, he executed a successful landing, awaited the embarkation of the team and its dog, then, in a superb display of airmanship, skillfully executed maneuvers to avoid damage to his aircraft and passengers, and safely lifted from the zone. Shortly thereafter, he received a request to medically evacuate a severely wounded Marine from another reconnaissance team located in the vicinity. When he reached the fire-swept zone he boldly landed, awaited the embarkation of the injured Marine, and returned to DaNang to deposit his passengers and pick up a relief unit. As he and other aircraft inserted the Marines in the dangerous zone, one helicopter was severely damaged and forced to execute an emergency landing. Major Mitchell landed his transport and embarked the crew of the downed helicopter. After unloading his passengers at DaNang, he immediately flew a re-supply of ammunition to a Marine unit which was in close contact with enemy soldiers. His heroic actions and determined efforts inspired all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of numerous Marines. By his courage, superior aeronautical ability, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of grave danger, Major Mitchell contributed significantly to the accomplishment of his unit’s mission and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.

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