The Aviation well done award is presented for outstanding airmanship and professional performance during a hazardous situation and for a significant contribution to the United States Air Force Mishap Prevention Program

Flying Safety, June, 2008

On Nov. 29, 2007, members of the Canadian Forces 408th Tactical Helicopter Squadron were on deployment in support of Exercise Gander Fury in Fort Sill, Okla.

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Master Corporal Dale Warren had just completed a preflight inspection of a CH-146 Griffon helicopter when he noticed that an American C-130 Hercules aircraft out of Youngstown, Ohio was about to taxi out to the runway for takeoff. His attention was drawn to a large piece of yellow material flapping behind the trailing edge of the aircraft's starboard wing. Recognizing this was not a normal condition, Master Cpl. Warren consulted CF Warrant Officer Ray Tanguay, who had extensive knowledge of the Hercules aircraft.

Warrant Officer Tanguay quickly recognized the yellow material as part of a flap from a partially deployed life raft. Both immediately proceeded to the front of the taxiing American aircraft and signaled the crew to stop. The Hercules aircraft captain and flight engineer disembarked the aircraft and were briefed of the potential danger by Warrant Officer Tanguay. The aircraft was then shut down and rendered unserviceable pending repairs.

Master Cpl. Warren's and Warrant Officer Tanguay's superior attention to detail and professionalism were noteworthy and clearly displayed a high degree of airmanship and concern for all fellow allied personnel and aircraft. Their selfless act is the cornerstone upon which mutual respect is developed, and fully demonstrates that they are truly deserving of this award.