AWARDED DFC: 2
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Desert Storm, Just Cause
MODEL:  AC-130A

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Clay T. McCutchan for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as AC-130A crewmember near Howard Air Force Base, Republic of Panama on 20 December 1989. On that date, while exposed to extreme danger from hostile anti-aircraft artillery fire, Major McCutchan's professionalism and attention to detail directly impacted on the success of air operations during Operation JUST CAUSE and in the saving of over 40 American lives. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major McCutchan reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air force.

2.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Clay T. McCutchan for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as AC-130A co-pilot over northern Kuwait on 26 February 1991. During this period, Major McCutchan demonstrated the highest degreee of courage, perseverance, and aerial skill while flawlessly accomplishing an intense, high-risk combat interdiction mission across heavily defended enemy lines in support of the ground assault phase of Operation DESERT STORM. His crew led a daring, three-gunship assault which contributed to the quick capture and decisive defeat of enemy forces in the area. At great risk to their own safety, they skillfully inflicted significant damage on numerous enemy combat transportation assets and personnel. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major McCutchan reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.