![]() ![]() “It was a great honor to be part of such a vital mission,” Nathan said. The direct support operator said it felt good to be a part of the team that day. Despite the high potential for surface to air engagement, Nathan provided critical threat information as his aircraft transitioned through a potentially lethal range of small arms and anti-aircraft artillery, according to his award citation.Įven though his aircraft was struck multiple times by enemy fire, Nathan’s technical expertise and professionalism provided the crew with the situational awareness that allowed them to successfully resupply the friendly forces, halting any further loss of life within the Special Operations team on the ground.įollowing the airdrop, Nathan continued to supply the aircrew with updates on threats and enemy activity, leading to the aircrew’s successful escape, preserving $72 million in assets and saving the lives of the six aircrew members. and Coalition Special Operations Forces who were isolated and cut off from their resupply means. Nathan, along with his aircrew, distinguished themselves by conducting an emergency resupply airdrop to a team of U.S. Nathan, a DSO who was then a staff sergeant and worked with the 9th Expeditionary Special Operations Squadron, Combined Joint Special Operations Air Component, Afghanistan. As a testament to their heroic actions, three of these operators have earned the Distinguished Flying Cross. ![]() Air Force Special Operations aircrews in what are many times stressful, dangerous missions. The direct support operators, or DSOs, of the 25th Intelligence Squadron have a unique mission, flying as members of U.S. ![]() Note: Some first names have been removed for security reasons. ![]()
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