Thomas D. Robertson

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major Thomas D. Robertson, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against the enemy on 9 December 1950 while flying a mission in close support of United Nations ground forces in the Kwachon area, Korea. Because of heavy fire from an enemy position in that vicinity, United Nations forces were unable to withdraw or advance. Demonstrating indomitable courage and superior flying skill, Major Robertson lead his flight over hazardous mountain terrain to attack the enemy pill box and gun position. After reaching the target area, he directed the formation to stand by while he pressed the attack. During the first pass, Major Robertson’s aircraft was hit in the left wing and fuselage causing the engine to stop. Despite the damage, Major Robertson completed the run and dropped two napalm tanks squarely on the pill box. He then banked the aircraft toward the river in preparation for a crash landing, but at this point the engine started again. Although the engine was misfiring, Major Robertson completed a second pass and destroyed the remaining gun position. The destruction of this important target enabled United Nations forces to successfully withdraw. Major Robertson’s remarkable courage and unrelenting determination to accomplish an extremely dangerous mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the service and reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.