Last Known Activity:
He flew combat missions in 3 wars. He was credited with destroying 2 enemy aircraft in WWII and 1 in Vietnam, making him one of only two pilots in history to score aerial victories in both WWII and Vietnam (Brig Gen Robin Olds was the other).
His Silver Star (1st of 4) citation:
Awarded for actions during the Korean War
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel Robert R. Scott (AFSN: FR-8541), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against an armed enemy of the United Nations as Pilot of an F-86 aircraft, 8th Fighter-Bomber Wing, FIFTH Air Force, on 18 July 1953. On that date, Colonel Scott displayed outstanding leadership and high personal courage while leading a squadron of F-86 type aircraft on an interdiction mission against enemy airfields at Sinji-ju, one of the most heavily defended areas in North Korea. While maneuvering into position for the first attack, his aircraft was hit by heavy anti-aircraft fire which caused extreme damage to the fuselage section of his aircraft. Although fully realizing the nature and seriousness of the damage, Colonel Scott, with complete disregard for his own personal safety and at great risk of life initiated his attack through intense anti-aircraft and automatic weapons fire. Through his skillful pilotage and leadership, maximum damage was inflicted upon the target with a minimum of injury to the squadron. Despite the crippled condition of his aircraft, Colonel Scott regrouped his squadron and led it safely through dangerous weather conditions back to the base. Through his high personal courage, professional skill and gallantry in the face of the enemy, Colonel Scott reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.
Action Date: July 18, 1953
Service: Air Force
Rank: Lieutenant Colonel
Regiment: 8th Fighter-Bomber Wing
Division: 5th Air Force
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