AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  GWOT
MODEL:  KC-130J

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the DISTINGUISHED FLYING CROSS to Captain Michael L. Wolff, United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as KC-130J RAIDR50 Aircraft Commander attached to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 on 29 September 2020. During the conduct of a fuel wing air-to-air refueling mission between an F-35B jet, BOLT 93, and a KC-130J Hercules, RAIDR50, the aircraft collided midair. The catastrophic impact stunned Captain Wolff and the crew. Quickly regaining his focus, he learned both right side engines and propellers were damaged or missing, the fuselage was damaged, and the right external fuel tank was on fire. Displaying remarkable calm, Captain Wolff addressed each emergency in order of priority while simultaneously directing his crew and communicating aircraft status and intentions with air traffic controllers. Without hesitation, he methodically made time-critical decisions and inputs in the midst of what could have been a fatal outcome. In the final moments airborne, Captain Wolff assisted his copilot in a safe landing into a farmer's field, holding off an impending stall until touchdown. Upon touchdown, Captain Wolff conducted an emergency shutdown, directed the crew to evacuate the aircraft, and accounted for crewmembers as they debarked. Captain Wolff's extraordinary piloting skills and timely decisions during the critical moments from impact to landing undoubtedly saved his crew. By his superb airmanship, inspiring courage, and loyal devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Captain Wolff reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.