AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  GWOT
MODEL:  MH-60

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States of America has awarded the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS to Chief Warrant Officer Three, Michael V. Kailian, Joint Task Force, for heroism during aerial flight on 25 May 2008, while serving as a MH-60 Flight Lead Pilot-in-Command for a Joint Task Force in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Chief Warrant Officer Three Kailian conducted numerous close air support engagements against an enemy ambush after his aircraft was damaged and his co-pilot wounded by hostile fire. His actions under enemy fire were instrumental in the survival of his crew as he neutralized the ambush site and enabled the flight to break contact. Chief Warrant Officer Three Kailian's distinctive accomplishments are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Joint Task Force, and the United States Army.