AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  GWOT
MODEL:  F-15E

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Jared T Thibault for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as F-15E Aircraft Commander, 492d Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 332d Expeditionary Operations Group, 332d Air Expeditionary Wing, at an undisclosed location, on 6 June 2017. On that date, the airmanship and courage exhibited by Captain Thibault helped secure coalition air superiority in the skies over United States Special Operations Forces in Syria in support of Operation INHERENT RESOLVE. Immediately after arriving on station, Captain Thibault supported the defensive counter airplane commander in identifying a Syrian MiG-29 aircraft moving to attack ground forces identified as Vetted Syrian Opposition. Captain Thibault expertly maneuvered his aircraft through a low altitude intercept to an offensive position while his flight lead disrupted the MiG-29's rocket and strafe attacks, ready to employ should the MiG-29 attempt to engage his flight lead. After his flight lead had exhausted his defensive countermeasures, Captain Thibault moved into position and twice disrupted the MiG-29's attacks at great risk to himself and his aircraft. Captain Thibault demonstrated exceptional airmanship, placing his aircraft in harm's way to protect friendly forces while avoiding actions that could have provoked escalation between Coalition and Syrian forces. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Thibault reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.