AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  Desert Storm
MODEL:  AV-8B

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain Clyde M. Woltman, Jr. for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Wingman in a section of HARRIERS conducting a night combat mission while flying with Marine Attack Squadron 311, Marine Aircraft Group 13 Forward, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific in support of Operation Desert Storm on 26 February 1991. On Captain Woltman's initial attack loaded with four 1,000-pound bombs, only one bomb released from the port wing resulting in an asymmetric condition prone to departure from safe flight. Emergency jettison was selected, releasing just the remaining bomb on the port wing and leaving two bombs hung on the starboard wing. A foul weather, night approach to a wet runway was flown at a forward base without the aid of a Landing Signal Officer. On touchdown, the asymmetric load fully compressed the right wing landing gear strut while the left wing landing gear remained off the ground during landing and roll-out. Captain Woltman exhibited a unique ability to perceive the asymmetry of his aircraft both during the target attack and during landing and displayed extraordinary talent in saving the aircraft in these two individual critical situations. By his bold determination, indomitable spirit, and endless dedication to duty, Captain Woltman reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.