AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  -

Citation:  1.) The aircraft and recovered from the pre-staff buffet so smoothly that an MH-47 helicopter was able to remain in contact on the left refueling hose. The 31,000 pounds of fuel passed by his element enabled the helicopters to exit enemy territory after the assault. During egress at 300 feet, his formation was engaged by three surface-to-air missiles, causing the third aircraft to lose sight of lead. Amidst the blinding illumination of defensive flares and violent threat maneuvers, Major Cline prevented a mid-air collision by immediately directing divergent headings and altitudes. His superior situational awareness and quick actions enabled his three-ship formation's successful defeat of the threat. The mission marked the deepest penetration of well-defended enemy airspace ever attempted by the MC-130P, and the successful assault dealt a huge psychological blow to the Iraqi regime. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Major Cline reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force