USAF A-10 Pilot Awarded DFC For Wheels Up Landing After Gun Malfunction & Explosion
Secretary of the Air Force
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Presented the Distinguished Flying Cross to Maj Brett DeVries of the Michigan Air Nation Guard's @127Wing today. Maj DeVries piloted his A-10 to safety after a failure in the aircraft's gun caused an explosion, jettisoning the canopy and multiple panels. #DFC#ReadyAF#A10
With deft expertise, then-Captain DeVries flew 25 minutes and, unable to lower the landing gear due to the damage, performed a wheels-up emergency landing -- saving the aircraft and walking away with only minor injuries.
Major DeVries' combination of skill, judgement, and selflessness is what earns a Distinguished Flying Cross. His actions epitomize the courage and skills of the @127Wing, the @AirNatlGuard , and the @USAirForce . #ReadyAF "