AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Desert Storm
MODEL:  AH-1W

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Steven R. Rudder, United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight during combat while serving as a Helicopter Aircraft Commander and Section Leader with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 367, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force during Task Force Papa Bear's advancement through Iraqi defensive belts in the State of Kuwait on 25 February 1991. While conducting armed reconnaissance 7000 meters forward of the friendly line of troops, Captain Rudder's helicopter division unknowingly entered an Iraqi fire-trap. Acting without hesitation or regard for his own life, Captain Rudder immediately interposed himself between the intense barrage of enemy fire and the lead section of the aircraft. As he drew the enemy fire away from the other aircraft, he simultaneously engaged the enemy with every weapon at his disposal. Captain Rudder's unremitting and extremely accurate attacks firing rockets and guns enabled the flight to egress with little damage. He eventually silenced the ZPU-4 anti-aircraft gun position and inflicted heavy casualties on the Iraqis. Only after raking the enemy trenchline with cannon fire and being assured his flight was clear of harm's way, did he rejoin the flight. Captain Rudder's decisive leadership, skillful airmanship and courageous devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.