“It is my duty, as a member of the Air Rescue Service, to save life and to aid the injured. I will be prepared at all times to perform my assigned duties quickly and efficiently, placing these duties before personal desires and comforts. These things I do that others may live.”

Pararescueman Killed in Action

Robert Berry was assigned to Detachment 5, 38 Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron, Udorn RTAFB, Thailand. From Udorn, the units HH-3 helicopters flew into Laos where they pulled strip alert for air strikes going into North Vietnam. Upon returning to Udorn, Sergeant Berry became ill and was admitted to the base hospital. His condition worsened and it was decided to MEDEVAC him to the United States. While in the hospital, he passed away from Black Water Fever. The location where he contracted the illness was classified as SECRET. Officially the USAF did not acknowledge we were operating in what was supposed to be the neutral country of Laos. Because he died in the United States, he is not listed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
Silver Star for April 22 1966 SAR