VADM David B. Robinson, 1963-1996

Served aboard destroyers Stormes and Rowan; executive officer of cruiser Dale; commanding officer of patrol craft Canon, destroyer Luce, cruiser Richmond K. Turner, and Commander Cruiser Destoyer Group Eight.  While commanding Canon during operations in the Vietnam War on 11 August 1970, then LCDR Robinson was awarded the Navy Cross in the Bo De River when his ship came under intense enemy automatic weapons, rocket and small arms attack from a forty-man force on both sides of the river. During the initial hail of enemy fire, LCDR Robinson sustained a broken leg and numerous shrapnel wounds when a rocket exploded on the port side of the bridge. Despite his serious wounds and loss of blood, he continued to direct his ship’s fire until the enemy attack was suppressed.  Refusing medical evacuation, LCDR Robinson requested that he be strapped to a stretcher and placed in an upright positions to that he could continue to direct actions of his ship until clear of the enemy ambush site. Shore assignments included BUPERS, Chief of Staff COMNAVSURFLANT, Executive Assistant to VCNO, Director Surface Warfare Manpower and Training; Director Surface Warfare; Director Operational Plans on Joint Staff.  His last assignment was Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S.  Pacific Fleet.  Additional awards included Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Navy Distinguished Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal.

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