AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  GWOT
MODEL:  C-17A

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major Dominic S. Calderon for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as C-17A Instructor Aircraft Commander, at Kabul International Airport, Afghanistan on 15 August 2021. On that date, Major Calderon successfully delivered 116 Soldiers of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, and its leadership to Kabul. Despite real-time intelligence indicating the danger of this mission into enemy-controlled territory, he bravely chose to continue at great risk, in order to provide vital airfield security in support of Allies Refuge. After performing a blacked-out tactical arrival, he observed vulnerable Americans and allied personnel that needed to be evacuated. Since the mission was not originally planned for passengers, Major Calderon’s aircraft had insufficient fuel aboard for the emergency evacuation of personnel. Without available air refueling or emergency depressurization routing, he still steadfastly directed the loading of 153 American and allied personnel, commanding the first noncombatant evacuation of the operation as the airfield was breached. With all of his passengers aboard, and with air traffic control absent, Major Calderon taxied the aircraft, avoiding advancing crowds, preventing the aircraft from being overrun and ultimately delivering [passengers, crew, and aircraft safely to their destination. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Calderon reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.