AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  California Creek Fire
MODEL:  UH-60M

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Chief Warrant Officer Five Kipp C. Goding, 40TH Combat Aviation Brigade, for distinguished acts of heroism while serving as a UH-60M Pilot-in-Command in support of California's Creek Fire. Chief Warrant Officer Five Kipp C. Goding risked his life to rescue 30 families which were stranded at Mammoth Pools after being isolated in the rapidly growing Creek Fire. Chief Warrant Officer Five Goding and his team pursued a hazardous ingress route, even though the team was advised that the conditions were too smoky to attempt an air rescue. The only suitable landing zone for his team was surrounded by fire within 50 feet. He and his team returned to the rescue site two additional times under rapidly deteriorating conditions. Chief Warrant Officer Five Goding's personal courage and astute analysis during a dire situation saved lives. His actions are in keeping with the highest military traditions of selfless service, honor, and personal courage, and reflects great credit upon himself, the 40th Combat Aviation Brigade, the California Army National Guard, and the United States Army.