AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  GWOT
MODEL:  CH-46E

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS to Captain Eric Garcia, United States Marine Corps, for service as set forth in the following CITATION: For heroism while participating in aerial flight as Section Leader attached to Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 162, Marine Aircraft Group 29, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM from 23 to 24 March 2003. While providing casualty evacuation support to Task Force TARAWA in the town of An Nasiriyah, Iraq, Captain Garcia's section was called upon to evacuate critically wounded Marines. Quickly coordinating escort support, Captain Garcia braved heavy small arms fire and skillfully maneuvered his aircraft to land in the midst of a built-up alley area in order to evacuate the casualties. After off-loading the casualties, Captain Garcia's section rapidly proceeded back into the firefight to load and evacuate additional Marines. Twice, through direct small arms and anti-aircraft fire, he courageously led his section into harm's way to extract casualties. Early the next morning, his section was called upon again to evacuate casualties. While escort aircraft suppressed enemy small arms and mortar fire, Captain Garcia led the section into the heavily contested area and extracted the casualties. Over a 24-hour period, Captain Garcia flew 16.7 hours, led the section in the evacuation of 23 casualties and five Enemy prisoners of war, and flew bravely into four contested landing zones. Captain Garcia's bravery and leadership in a high threat environment saved the lives of critically injured Marines. By his superb airmanship, inspiring courage, and loyal devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Captain Garcia reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. The Combat Distinguished Device is authorized.