The Distinguished Flying Cross Medal is the United States Air Force’s highest honor for heroism in aerial flight, and a Marysville native just received the award.
Captain Jasen Hrisca received the award after his contribution to a flight that saved the lives of 88 American and Afghan service members. Hrisca and his crew from the 73rd Special Operations Squadron provided protective air cover which facilitated a safe evacuation for troops on the ground.
Hrisca said, “We were just doing our primary job. For gunship crews, this is keeping the ground force safe. The most rewarding part is knowing that we were able to get them all out alive. This isn’t always the case, and I’m thankful we were able to go to work and get them out.”
Captain Hrisca was honored in a letter from Embry-Riddle President P. Barry Butler who said, “While the meritorious achievement the Air Medal represents was a heroic and harrowing experience, I also want to commend you for what you have contributed through almost ten years of U.S. Air Force service. Through your role as an instructor, combat systems officer, navigator and AC-130J weapons and tactics officer, you undoubtedly save the lives of fellow fliers and protect us all.”
