By Tech. Sgt. Heather Ley
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
More than a dozen Team Fairchild Airmen received the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Bronze Star Medal during a ceremony on March 31 for their heroic actions during recent combat operations.
Maj. Gen. Charles Bolton, Eighteenth Air Force commander, presided over the ceremony and praised 15 honorees for their “courage, professionalism and an unyielding commitment to the mission and their fellow Airmen.”
The awards recognized the aircrews for their performance while flying complex and dangerous missions in contested airspace. The Airmen were lauded for providing critical refueling that enabled other Air Force assets to continue the fight and return home safely.
“These historic missions were fraught with peril and required decisive reactions to dynamic operational environments,” said Bolton. “The way they choose to respond, the way they adapt and work together – that’s what we’re highlighting today.”
The Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded for extraordinary heroism and aerial achievement, while the Bronze Star recognizes heroic or meritorious service in a combat zone. Both are among the nation’s highest military decorations.
“The skill and tenacity displayed by the members here today led directly to the success of the overall operation,” said Bolton. “We thank them for displaying this true grit and dedication.”
While the ceremony focused on the decorated Airmen, Bolton also credited the wider team whose efforts were essential to the mission. The decoration ceremony drew a crowd of approximately 300, comprising of Team Fairchild personnel, local community figures, and family members to celebrate and honor the recipients.
“From maintainers ensuring aircraft readiness, to mission planners and support crews, none of this could happen without the collective efforts of our Air Force family,” said Bolton.
He concluded by framing the actions of the honorees not just as a successful mission, but as a lasting legacy for the service.
“These Airmen have not only written a chapter in the proud history of our Air Force but have set an example for all who wear the uniform,” said Bolton. “On behalf of a grateful nation and the Eighteenth Air Force, thank you for your service, your sacrifice and your unwavering commitment to the mission.”
U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing pose for a photo during a decoration ceremony at Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, March 31, 2026. The decorated Airmen stood united in their shared honor, embodying the exceptional service and heroism celebrated during the ceremony.
