Robert G. Ruegg’s Distinguished Service Cross citation

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Robert George Ruegg, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-25 Medium Bomber in the 8th Bombardment Squadron, 3d Bombardment Group (L), FAR EAST Air Force, while participating in bombing missions from 1 to 14 April 1942, against enemy targets in the Southwest Pacific Area of Operations. While acting as Squadron Commander during this period, Lieutenant Ruegg lead his squadron without fighter protection on four highly successful raids on enemy airdromes, and in spite of violent enemy fighter opposition, was able to destroy eighteen enemy airplanes and to cause heavy damage to installation and runway without undue losses to the squadron. Through the repeated courageous leadership of Lieutenant Ruegg, personnel and installations of the Port Moresby area were afforded increased protection from enemy air raids at a time when such aid was critically needed. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Ruegg during this period have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.