AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  GWOT
MODEL:  F-117

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Squadron Leader Alistair Monkman of the Royal Air Force for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an F-117A Stealth Fighter Pilot over the former Republic of Yugoslavia on 26 April 1999. On that date, he served as overall mission commander of a large multi-ship aircraft strike package on a highly successful strike mission flown in support of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization sponsored Operation ALLIED FORCE. Squadron Leader Monkman displayed the highest level of bravery in the face of enormous anti-aircraft artillery fire en route to his heavily defended target area. Destruction of his very high priority target, located in downtown Belgrade, was intended to strike a serious blow to the legitimacy and war-fighting capability of the Serbian government. As Squadron Leader Monkman approached Belgrade, he assessed the weather in the target area would likely preclude weapons release. Despite the grave risk to his personal safety from anti-aircraft artillery fire, Squadron Leader Monkman successfully maneuvered his aircraft to avoid the poor weather conditions, skillfully acquired his target through the gaps in the clouds, delivered his ordnance, and guided his weapons to impact on the desired aim point. Post-strike battle damage assessment later revealed the target had been destroyed. Squadron Leader Monkman then successfully evaluated the air defense threats and safely returned to Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Squadron Leader Monkman reflect great credit upon himself and the Royal Air Force.