AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  GWOT
MODEL:  F-15E

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (with Valor) to Captain Sebastian B. Kaiser for heroism in aerial flight while engaged in military operations involving conflict against an opposing Foreign Force as F-15E Instructor Weapons Systems Officer, 335th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 332 Air Expeditionary Wing, from 13 April 2024 through 14 April 2024. During this period, Captain Kaiser flew in a four-ship of F-15E Strike Eagles as part of a large-force Coalition Defensive Counterair mission to defeat an Iranian attack comprising over three hundred ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and one-way unmanned aerial systems. As the first Coalition aircraft to establish a defensive combat air patrol, Captain Kaiser’s formation detected and engaged the opening swarm of dozens of Iranian attack drones, initiating an hours-long aerial battle and enabling the Coalition Forces Air Component Commander’s response plan. Maneuvering his F-15E at low altitude and in complete darkness Captain Kaiser personally engaged and destroyed seven drones. Concerned that an additional engagement could result in collateral damage, he expertly passed off targeting to a better-positioned aircraft, preserving civilian infrastructure without sacrificing the engagement. After exhausting his available missiles, he attempted to engage an additional drone with his remaining weapon, a laser-guided Joint Direct Attack Munition. Out of weapons, he remained on station until he was at minimum fuel, using his sensors to assist other aircraft targeting follow-on drone swarms. Returning to base under Alarm Red, as PATRIOT missiles launched and Israeli interceptors detonated dozens of Iranian ballistic missiles overhead, Captain Kaiser navigated through active air defense artillery and intense falling debris, ensuring the safe recovery of his F-15E and aircrew. Captain Kaiser’s actions played a vital role in blunting Iran’s large-scale attack against Israel, protecting Coalition forces, saving countless civilian lives, and ultimately preventing a larger regional conflict. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Kaiser reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.