AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  GWOT
MODEL:  HC-130P

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Jason L. Tranum for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an HC-130P King Aircraft Commander, 79th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron, 451st Expeditionary Operations Group, 451st Air Expeditionary Wing, Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, near Forward Operating Base Shank on 10 April 2011. On that date, on final approach for an urgent medical evacuation, Major Tranum's aircraft experienced an unsafe left main gear indication. Major Tranum immediately terminated the approach, coordinating holding airspace clear of weather and threats, stabilized the aircraft, and began reviewing the technical order. Confirming that the left main gear was not fully extended, he promptly coordinated with controlling agencies for a return to Bastion Airfield. Major Tranum skillfully balanced technical order procedures that directed an immediate descent and depressurization of the aircraft with high terrain and a patient onboard who was experiencing hemorrhaging of the lungs, both of which prevented immediate compliance with the emergency procedure. With thunderstorms threatening the landing airfield and the aircraft nearing minimum fuel, Major Tranum executed two separate emergency procedures to lower the gear with no effect. Running out of options and after three hours of dealing with the emergency, Major Tranum directed the crew to execute manual gear extension. After confirming that this action secured the landing gear in the extended position held in place by chains, he successfully landed the aircraft with no damage or injuries. Major Tranum's commendable leadership saved the lives of thirteen people and preserved a seventy-seven million dollar Air Force asset. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Tranum reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.