Senior Airman Zachary J. Rhyner

On April 6, 2008, Senior Airman Zachary J. Rhyner served as a Combat Controller attached to a Special Forces team during an enemy ambush in Afghanistan. Although surrounded by insurgents and under relentless fire, Rhyner repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to direct close air support and coordinate reinforcements. His actions enabled coalition aircraft to strike enemy positions with precision, preventing friendly forces from being overrun. Rhyner's extraordinary heroism, calm leadership, and unwavering commitment to his teammates earned him the Air Force Cross, the nation's second-highest award for valor.