Kunsan F-16 pilot awarded Kolligian Trophy for “flameout approach” maneuver
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin presented the 2023 Koren Kolligian Jr. Trophy to Capt. Harry “Butcher” McMahon during a ceremony at the Pentagon, Sep. 26.
As explained by Tech. Sgt. Nick Koetz, Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs, in the article F-16 pilot awarded Kolligian Trophy for aircraft recovery, the trophy is named after 1st Lt. Koren Kolligian Jr., an Air Force pilot who was declared missing when his T-33 Shooting Star disappeared off the California coast on Sep. 14, 1955.
“This is the highest safety achievement award that we give,” Allvin said. “It’s not just about safety. It’s about operational effectiveness.”
On July 28, 2023, McMahon, 80th Fighter Squadron F-16 pilot, 8th Fighter Wing, Kunsan Air Base, South Korea, demonstrated exceptional Airmanship during a training sortie. After an in-flight engine failure, McMahon safely recovered his aircraft and landed at a Korean air base with no US presence.
Allvin praised McMahon for his exceptional aviation skills and quick decision-making abilities, which prevented injuries and ultimately saved a combat asset.
“Capt. McMahon exemplifies what it means to be an American Airman and aviator. When facing danger, he was decisive and cool-headed, allowing him to successfully problem-solve and navigate a life-threatening situation,” Allvin said.
Avoiding colliding with two Korean F-35s taking off from the opposite direction
During the sortie, McMahon heard an unidentifiable “thump” from his engine. Together with his flight lead, Maj. Micheal “Flint” Sarno, they decided to return to base as a precaution. However, a second, louder “thump” from the engine was accompanied by a loss of thrust, decreased engine performance, and decreased engine temperature. The emergency power unit automatically engaged, providing the necessary electrical and hydraulic power to maintain flight.
McMahon immediately turned toward the nearest suitable airfield and tried to restart his engine. Unfortunately, the engine never regained enough usable power, forcing him to land via a maneuver called the “flameout approach” to avoid colliding with two Korean F-35s taking off from the opposite direction.
McMahon credited his wingman for making it home safely that day. He also highlighted the importance of the training he received from the Air Force.
“I’m optimistic the Air Force is in the right path; the training is the right way, and the simulators are close to real life,” he said.
Presented annually, the Koren Kolligian Jr. Trophy is the only individual flight safety award personally presented by the Air Force chief of staff.
80th Fighter Squadron
The 80th Fighter Squadron flies the F-16 Fighting Falcon out of Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, and is one of two fighter squadrons assigned to the 8th Fighter Wing, the Wolf Pack.
The 80th Fighter Squadron stands ready to conduct counter-air, air interdiction, close air support and forward air controllers missions in both day and night conditions.
In September of 1981 the 80th became the first unit stationed overseas to convert to the F-16 Fighting Falcon. On Jan. 31, 1992, the 80th TFS was redesignated 80 FS and reassigned to the TFW. The 80th continues to support the United States Contingent in Korea with the same pride and excellence instilled in the squadron from the “Headhunters” of the past.
Photo by Senior Airman Armando A. Schwier-Morales / U.S. Air Force