Distinguished Flying Cross
Awarded for actions during the Vietnam War
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander Robert James Schweitzer, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 4 January 1968 as a pilot in Attack Squadron ONE HUNDRED FORTY-FOUR (VA-144), embarked in U.S.S. KITTY HAWK (CVA-63). As flight leader of a two-plane WALLEYE attack element, Commander Schweitzer planned a precision approach and attack to obtain optimum advantage for the weapons employed against the Haiphong Highway Bridge as the primary target and other standing major arterial bridges in the Haiphong area as secondary targets. After penetrating the intense anti-aircraft artillery and automatic-weapons fire to the target area, he ascertained that the primary target was obscured by smoke from targets previously struck by other air-wing strikes in the area. Commander Schweitzer then led his element through the continuing enemy fire to achieve a direct hit on the northernmost span of the nearby, still-standing Kien An Highway Bridge, achieving maximum destruction to this vital enemy transportation link. He then skillfully led his element through the increased enemy fire to safety without loss or damage to aircraft or injury to pilot. Commander Schweitzer's courageous actions and outstanding aerial leadership reflect great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Action Date: January 4, 1968
Service: Navy
Rank: Commander
Company: Attack Squadron 144 (VA-144)
Division: U.S.S. Kitty Hawk (CVA-63)
