THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY WASHINGTON   The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS to   Lieutenant Commander Robert G. Thompson III United States Navy   For service as set forth in the following   CITATION:   For heroism while participating in aerial flight against hostile forces as the Lead Pilot of an A-6E INTRUDER while serving with Attack Squadron 145 embarked in USS RANGER (CV-61) on 28 January 1991.  As the leader of an eight-plane strike against multiple targets in Al Basrah, Iraq, Lieutenant Commander Thomson covertly maneuvered the six elements of his strike package into position to simultaneously attack two communications centers, an aircraft hangar, and a patrol boar repair facility. Displaying superb leadership in the air, his strike group achieved complete surprise against the enemy air defenses, receiving intense anti-aircraft artillery fire only after the strike was off target and the weapons already on the mark.  As a direct result of his exceptionally accurate targeting, Lieutenant Commander Thomson strike exacted severe damage on the enemy’s communications capability and completely destroyed the aircraft hangar and repair facility.  By his inspiring courage, brilliant leadership, and complete dedication to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Lieutenant Commander Thomson reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.   The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.   For the President,   Secretary of the Navy