The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Kevin G. Mechler, United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot with Marine Observation Squadron TWO (VMO-2), Marine Aircraft Group Thirteen Forward, THIRD Marine Aircraft Wing, I Marine Expeditionary Force (I MEF), Fleet Marine Force, Pacific on 22 February 1991. First Lieutenant Mechler conducted two flights totaling 8.1 hours in support of I MEF operations. During the first flight, he simultaneously supported two companies from 2d Light Armored Infantry Battalion by engaging revetted enemy tanks and troops in trenches with close air support and adjusting artillery fire. During the process of controlling a section of Marine AV-8B HARRIERS, First Lieutenant Mechler successfully avoided two SA-6 surface-to-air missiles. He remained in the battle and despite the constant threat of anti-aircraft artillery and surface-to-air missiles, First Lieutenant Mechler controlled a section of F/A-18 HORNETS on an enemy trench line which resulted in the destruction of an enemy tank. On another flight later that evening using the forward looking infrared radar, he located twelve vehicles despite severe smoke from fire trenches and burning oil wells. Again, First Lieutenant Mechler exposed himself to the enemy anti-aircraft threat to control attack aircraft. By his superior airmanship, inspiring courage, and total devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, First Lieutenant Mechler reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. (The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.)