AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  OEF
MODEL:  A-10C

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Ian R. Osterreicher for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an A-10C Pilot, 74th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 455th Expeditionary Operations Group, 455th Air Expeditionary Wing near Kabul, Afghanistan on 23 July 2013. On that date, Captain Osterreicher led a flight of two A-10Cs in support of a route clearance patrol under heavy effective enemy fire. With mounting casualties and no Joint Terminal Attack Controller in the patrol, Captain Osterreicher declared an emergency close air support event where he employed multiple 30 millimeter danger close strafe runs, some as close as 50 meters to friendly positions, as the enemy forces closed in. His efforts stopped the initial assault, but American forces remained pinned down. Due to the enemy's advantage, he employed two Joint Direct Attack Munitions on their fighting positions, which neutralized their force. During the strike Captain Osterreicher orchestrated a quick reaction medical evacuation for critically wounded American casualties. Additionally, he coordinated with command and control for follow on close air support as his flight ran low on available munitions. Ultimately, his flight's precise weapons employments allowed the route clearance patrol to break contact after an hour-long firefight. The decisive actions, sound judgment and impeccable flight leadership of Captain Osterreicher prevented the near certain overrun of a friendly position, allowed the timely evacuation of the wounded and saved the lives of 60 American soldiers. During the course of the mission, his flight expended 2,170 rounds of 30 millimeter, five rockets, and three bombs, which resulted in 18 enemies killed in action. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Osterreicher reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.