AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Cold War
MODEL:  Classified Aircraft

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumous) to Lieutenant Colonel Eric E. Schultz for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a developmental test pilot on 5 September 2017. On that date, after leading several United States Air Force and Navy combat aircraft on an effective joint service training mission, Colonel Schultz experienced critical malfunctions in multiple aircraft systems that precluded successful landing gear extension. Without hesitation, Colonel Schultz led the mission control room personnel, chase aircraft and support agencies through multiple emergency procedures checklist in methodical attempts to achieve a safe landing condition. After exhausting checklist procedures, and at a critically low fuel state, he attempted a dangerous last ditch effort to save the aircraft instead of immediately proceeding to the controlled bailout location. At great risk to himself, Colonel Schultz skillfully completed the unrehearsed maneuver within a small flight envelope before quickly recognizing an additional catastrophic failure that caused severe aircraft damage and required immediate recovery. Without hesitation, he executed a go-around and demonstrated instinctive skill and decisiveness in extreme circumstances. Following the brave attempt to land the disabled aircraft, Colonel Schultz maneuvered to a stable position at a safe altitude and initiated a controlled ejection. The decisive actions and swift analysis, while attempting to recover the aircraft, and the skill demonstrated during an unrehearsed maneuver, exhibited exceptional heroism well beyond the call of duty and is a testament to his exemplary skill as a developmental test pilot. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Colonel Schultz in the dedication of his service to his country reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.