SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. - - Six F-16 Fighting Falcon pilots assigned to the 55th Fighter Squadron received the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for their heroic actions in recent combat operations during a ceremony at Shaw Air Force Base on May 5, 2026.
The six exceptional aviators were honored for their contributions to Operation Midnight Hammer, the United States' successful strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites in June of 2025. The Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded for extraordinary heroism while in flight and is among the nation's highest military decorations.
Gen. Adrian Spain, commander of Air Combat Command, presided over the ceremony and recognized the honorees for their dedication to duty. Their mission involved high-risk...
U.S. Air Force Col. Brad Howell, 25th Attack Wing commander, and his children, Ryan (right) and Avery (left), record batting announcements for Julio Rodriguez, Leo Rivas, and Mitch Garver of the Seattle Mariners for their Salute to Armed Forces Night, April 27, 2026.
