The 2021 Afghanistan evacuation pushed U.S. aircrews into extreme, often unplanned situations. Two C-17 teams—Reach 651 and Moose 98—faced medical emergencies, security threats, and mass-casualty evacuations while trying to move thousands to safety. Their actions during the Kabul withdrawal, including responding to the Abbey Gate bombing, saved lives under intense pressure. For their extraordinary performance in aerial flight, both crews were awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Read the full