2024 – Strike Eagle Crews

On the night of April 13, 2024, Iran launched its first-ever direct attack on Israel, firing more than 300 drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles at Israeli targets. The DUDE 61 Formation — a two-ship element of F-15E Strike Eagles led by Major Coffey — served as airborne mission commanders during what has been described as one of the most significant air-to-air engagements in modern history.

Their decisive leadership drove a multinational defensive counter-air operation to victory, coordinating U.S., Israeli, and coalition forces to achieve 80 air-to-air engagements and a 99 percent intercept rate. Operating under the cover of darkness and amid falling debris from hostile fire, the crew repeatedly engaged in threats at extreme close range. After expending all air-to-air missiles, they employed their aircraft’s 20mm guns against low-altitude drones — demonstrating extraordinary resourcefulness and determination.

The 2024 Recipients are:

• Major Benjamin J. “Irish” Coffey II, Pilot – DUDE 61
• Captain Lacie E. “Sonic” Hester, Weapon Systems Officer – DUDE 61
• Lieutenant Colonel Curtis B. “Voodoo” Culver, Pilot – DUDE 62
• Lieutenant Colonel Timothy A. “Diesel” Causey, Weapon Systems Officer – DUDE 62

2023 – The crew of Pedro 11

As outlined in the United States Air Force nomination, Pedro 11 distinguished themselves while on Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) alert in East Africa, Pedro 11 Flight received a casualty evacuation request for two civilian children with life-sustaining injuries resulting from incidental fire,” said General Allvin. “Despite encountering several flight control malfunctions shortly after takeoff, Pedro 11 Flight continued with the mission, demonstrating unwavering commitment.” He continued, “Throughout the mission, they overcame their still malfunctioning flight control systems and performed air refueling en route to the surgical facility. During this harrowing journey, the crew provided 45 minutes of ventilation and chest compressions for the patients while flying through a violent storm, covering 50 nautical miles under a 100-foot ceiling and half-mile visibility. Their efforts ultimately enabled the safe delivery of both patients to damage control surgery, saving the life of one child.View Press Release

Crew of Pedro 11
1Lt Collin A. Dwornicki
TSgt Justin T. Hubbard
SSgt Brandon K. Heyz
SSgt Tyler J. Huff
SSgt Caleb K. Smith
SrAMark E. Erichsen
Capt Johnathan Rudy
Capt Jacob Parzych
SSgt Jonathan Frost
SSgt Austin Sapiro
Capt Bryan Tordoff
Capt Justin Jones
TSgt Ryan Leonard
SSgt Levi McCollister

2022 – Major Stephen D. “Ali” Keck

As outlined in the United States Air Force nomination, Major Stephen D. Keck distinguished himself as Weapons Assistant Director of Operations and Evaluator Pilot, 335th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, Undisclosed Location, Southwest Asia, 16 June 2022. Major Keck served as the Defensive Counter-Air Team Lead supporting a special operations team in contested enemy territory. During this mission, he identified and corrected a critical error during ingress that would have given away the Task Force’s position. Additionally, Major Keck identified an adversary aircraft in the contested airspace and initiated an intercept to ensure the safety of ground forces. With Major Keck’s exemplary leadership, this operation resulted in the capture of a senior Islamic State leader. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Major Keck reflect credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.View Press Release

2021 – The Crews of Shadow 77 &78

As outlined in the United States Air Force nomination, the crews distinguished themselves in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel when in August 2021 they alert launched from Al Dhafra Air Force Base, United Arab Emirates, for a Close Air Support mission to protect the 2,000 Americans evacuating the embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan. The crews skillfully maintained visual custody of all American personnel enroute to Hamid Karzai International Airport and provided full-motion video in real-time to the Secretary of Defense and the Joint Chiefs of Staff as they watched the evacuation transpire. Overall, the crews of Shadow 77 and 78 flew the longest unaugmented AC-130J flight to date and their efforts to safeguard the embassy evacuation directly resulted in the successful rescue of 2,000 American diplomats with zero casualties.View Press Release

2020 – The Crews of Hawg 53 Flight

As outlined in the United States Air Force nomination, the crew of Hawg 53 were deployed from their home station of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, as a two-ship formation of A-10Cs, flying out of the 455th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 451st Air Expeditionary Group, Kandahar Air Base, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel.  On January 5, 2020, Lieutenant Colonel Bier and Lieutenant Colonel Nordhagen were tasked to support a troops in contact situation where the Afghan Combat Outpost was under heavy attack from Taliban forces.  As the only airborne response available in Afghanistan, Hawg 53 battled significant weather, mountainous terrain, dislocated controllers, and a determined enemy to halt the attack and save the outpost from being overrun, ultimately saving the lives of 30 Afghan soldiers.  The professional ability and outstanding aerial accomplishments of the crew of Hawg 53 reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

2019 – The Crews of Hawg 71 Flight

As outlined in the United States Air Force nomination, the crew of Hawg 71 were deployed from their home station of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, as a two-ship formation of A10Cs, flying out of the 354th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 451st Air Expeditionary Group, Kandahar Air Base, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. On July 19, 2019, Captain Boules and Major Stretch were tasked to support a troops-in-contact situation in which countless Afghan Special Forces were being overrun, captured, and pinned down with heavy machine gun fire and rocket propelled grenades. Working together as Hawg 71 flight, Captain Boules and Major Stretch waged a diligent battle against the difficulties of night operations, terrain, dislocated controllers, and significant language barriers to enable coordinated strikes against enemy fighters, ultimately saving the lives of 12 Afghan Special Forces members.  The professional ability and outstanding aerial accomplishments of the crew of Hawg 71 reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

2018 – The Crew of Draco 42 Flight

As outlined in the United States Air Force nomination, the crew of Draco 42 distinguished themselves as a U-28A crew, 319th Expeditionary Special Operations Squadron, Combined Joint Special Operations Air Component-Afghanistan in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel while serving as the Tactical Air Controller-Airborne for a joint, interagency, time-sensitive mission on August 14, 2018. Despite multiple rounds of indirect fire impacting near the aircraft at their forward refueling location, Draco 42 continued to coordinate rapidly evolving target and concept of operation changes with geographically separated air and ground assets. Once airborne, Draco 42 managed the highly complex operation of simultaneous helicopter infiltrations to time-sensitive targets in urban areas that yielded valuable intelligence on a top-level Al Qaeda leader and four enemy killed in action. The professional ability and outstanding aerial accomplishments of the crew of Draco 42 reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

2017 – The Crew of Boar 51 Flight

As outlined in the United States Air Force nomination, the crew of Boar 51 distinguished themselves as two-ship A-10s, 354th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 447th Expeditionary Operations Group, Incirlik Air Base, Turkey in support of OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE. On May 2, 2017, the crew of Boar 51 was re-tasked to support a troops-in-contact situation where 50 American and countless Syrian Democratic Forces were pinned down with heavy machine gun fire, mortars, and rocket-propelled grenades. Boar 51 flight expended 1,500 pounds of ordnance and 1,300, 30-millimeter rounds on 19 targets, often inside danger close criteria. For over five hours, Captain Harvey and Major Schultz overcame communications degradation, severe thunderstorms and near-zero visibility, ultimately saving the lives of friendly forces. The distinctive accomplishments of Captain Harvey and Major Schultz reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

2016 – The Crew of Spooky 43 Flight

On November 2, 2016, the crew of SPOOKY 43 was tasked to provide close air support and armed reconnaissance for a 55-man combined American and Afghan special operations team conducting a raid to interdict insurgent command and control nodes, senior leadership, and their networks.  After the crew of SPOOKY 43 arrived overhead, the combined American and Afghan special operations force (also referred to as “friendlies”) was caught in a deadly ambush by a large insurgent force.  The friendlies were engaged by small arms, heavy machine gun, and grenade fire from multiple defensive fighting positions.  The crew of SPOOKY 43 provided close air support to the friendly ground force with the 25, 40, and 105-millimeter guns, to allow the them the freedom to maneuver and provide care for casualties.  In order to protect the ground team from enemy personnel, the crew of SPOOKY 43 expertly employed the 105-millimeter gun at an unprecedented 12 meters from the friendly personnel.  Due to the outstanding airmanship and bravery under extremely challenging circumstances, SPOOKY 43 destroyed 10 defensive fighting positions, 27 enemy insurgents, and three enemy technical vehicles, saving the lives of 50 combined American and Afghan special operations forces personnel who would have otherwise perished in the enemy ambush. The professional ability and outstanding aerial accomplishments of the crew of SPOOKY 43 reflect credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

2015 – The Crews of Weasel 41 and Weasel 51 Flight

On July 26, 2015, United States Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Jeffrey Cohen, Major Seth Taylor, Captain Danielle Kangas, and Captain Mathew Park, arrived on scene over Hassekah, a major city in northeast Syria, where friendly Syrian Kurdish ground units were battling the last significant holdout of a group of Islamic State enemy personnel.  A firefight in the southeast portion of the city had erupted, pinning Kurdish ground units in a dense urban city block.  Overcoming targeting complicated by weather and limited communications, Lieutenant Colonel Cohen and Major Taylor expertly coordinated and employed several successful munitions in support of Kurdish forces despite highly restrictive attack parameters. Captain Kangas and Captain Park tracked and executed an effective attack on fleeing enemy soldiers wearing blankets to reduce their infrared signature.  In a four-hour period, the crews of WEASEL 41 and WEASEL 51 flight employed 15 precision guided munitions, destroying eight enemy fighting positions, with no friendly or civilian casualties. This marked the end of a three-month operation in Northern Syria that resulted in friendly Kurdish forces retaking over 17 thousand square kilometers of territory, securing the Syria/Turkey boarder between Iraq and the Euphrates River.

2014 – The Crew of Ironhand 41 Flight

Captain Gregory R. Balzhiser and Captain David A. Kroontje, the aircrew of the Pacific Air Forces` Ironhand 41 flight, orchestrated four flawless attacks during an eight hour night, flying F-16Cs over 500 miles in enemy-controlled terrain.  Their attacks destroyed three Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) blockades, multiple armored vehicles, one observation post, and killed ISIL fighters who were firing upon 40,000 trapped Yazidi civilians who had fled to Mount Sinjar.  Their outstanding battle management caused the cessation of ISIL indirect fires on civilians, ended ISIL freedom of movement around Mount Sinjar, facilitated the evacuation corridor by reducing pressure on Peshmerga ground forces, and ultimately saved the lives of 40,000 civilians including women, children, elderly, and the infirm.

2013 – The Crews of Rooster 73 Flight

The crews of Rooster 73 flight (Rooster 73, Rooster 74, and Rooster 75) distinguished themselves as CV-22 Pilots and Flight Engineers, 8th Expeditionary Special Operations Squadron, on 21 December 2013 while conducting the most meritorious flight of the year in support of Noncombatant Evacuation Operations in the vicinity of Bor, South Sudan. The formation of three CV-22 Ospreys was tasked with the daylight evacuation of American Citizens due to escalating threats. On approach to land, the formation took heavy surface to air fire, receiving damage to multiple aircraft systems and injuring four Special Operations Forces personnel onboard. The extensive damage caused multiple fuel leaks requiring the aircraft to call for emergency airborne refueling allowing for the safe recovery of all three battle damaged aircraft, crew and passengers. The distinctive accomplishments of Rooster 73 flight reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

Crew Members of Rooster 73
Major Ryan P. Mittelstet
Captain Brett J. Cassidy
Technical Sergeant David A. Shea
Staff Sergeant Christopher Nin
Crew Members of Rooster 74
Captain William J. Mendel
Captain Arjun U. Rau
Staff Sergeant James M. McKay
Staff Sergeant Kenneth E. Zupkow II
Crew Members of Rooster 75
Major B. Taylor Fingarson
Captain Daniel J. Denney
Master Sergeant Alberto L. Delgado
Master Sergeant Jeremy D. Hoye
Technical Sergeant Daniel Warren
Technical Sergeant Jason Broline
Senior Airman Lee Von Hackprestinary

2012 – The Crews of Pedro 83

The members of Pedro 83 Flight distinguished themselves as United States Air Force Combat Search and Rescue aircrew during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM from 1 November 2011 to 8 February 2012. In January 2012, Pedro 83 Flight, a formation of HH-60G Pavehawks, launched in response to an urgent MEDEVAC near Mazar-e-Sharif, Afghanistan. The flight navigated through visibility as low as two miles to reach the patient. There, Pedro 84 executed a hoist over hostile terrain to infiltrate Pararescumen and provide life-saving care to the wounded soldier. The actions of Pedro 83 Flight saved the patient’s life and directly supported on-going assault operations resulting in eight enemy killed in action and 35 captured. The distinctive accomplishments of the crews of Pedro 83 Flight reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

HH-60 Crews of Pedro 83 and Pedro 84
Captain Vincent B. Powell, USAF
Captain Thomas R. Stengl, USAF
Captain Brion P. Stroud, USAF
First Lieutenant Paul A. Fry, USAF
Chief Master Sergeant Norman S. Callahan, USAF
Technical Sergeant John G. Ballard, USAF
Staff Sergeant Lucas G. Ferrari, USAF
Staff Sergeant Mahonri R. Gibson, USAF
Staff Sergeant Thomas A. Hervert, USAF
Technical Sergeant Cameron J. Hystad, USAF
Staff Sergeant William A. Mathis, USAF
Senior Airman Brian D. Ayers, USAF
Senior Airman Jordan J. Dehlbom, USAF

2011 – The Crews of Pedro 83

The crews of Pedro 83 flight who distinguished themselves in combat search and rescue operations on April 23, 2011 while assigned to the 83rd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron, Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan. On this date, Pedro 83 Flight executed the daring rescue of two United States Army pilots downed in enemy-controlled territory east of Bagram during infiltration, Pedro 84 was struck by enemy fire, severely injuring the flight engineer. As Pedro 84 returned to base for medical treatment Pedro 83 provided emergency close air support for pararescuemen on the ground, ultimately braving a hail of small arms fire to rescue a downed pilot. While low on fuel, damaged by enemy fire and battling multiple aircraft emergencies, Pedro 83 remained on scene until Pedro 84 returned with a reconstituted crew. Pedro 84 made two attempts to recover the second pilot and their isolated pararescueman team, who were surrounded by insurgents, but was repelled by heavy enemy fire. Although Pedro 84 had been hit more than ten times and two crewmembers received damage to their protective equipment, they remained overhead until Pedro 83 returned. Pedro 83 flight made three approaches into the besieged landing zone, but was forced to go around after exchanging fire with a fortified enemy within 100 meters. On the fourth attempt, Pedro 83 was able to land and evacuate an Army soldier critically wounded during ground recovery attempts while Pedro 84 hoisted the second pilot and pararescueman team successfully ending six hours of intense coalition rescue operations. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of the crews of Pedro 83 Flight reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

Crew Members of Pedro 83
Captain Joshua Hallada (Flight Lead)
First Lieutenant Elliott Milliken (Co-Pilot)
Senior Airman Michael Price (Flight Engineer)
Senior Airman Justin Tite (Aerial Gunner)
Crew Members of Pedro 84
Major Philip Bryant (Mission Pilot)
Captain Louis Nolting
Technical Sergeant James Davis
Technical Sergeant Heath Culbertson
Technical Sergeant William Gonzalez
Crew Members of Guardian Angel Team
Major Jesse Peterson (Guardian Angel Team Commander)
First Lieutenant Aaron Hunter (Combat Rescue Officer)
Master Sergeant Matthew Schrader (Pararescueman)
Technical Sergeant Joshua Vanderbrink
Technical Sergeant Christopher Uriarte
Technical Sergeant Shane Hargis
Staff Sergeant Jason Ruiz
Staff Sergeant Angel Santana
Staff Sergeant Nathan Greene
Staff Sergeant Zachary Kline
Staff Sergeant William Cenna

2010 – Dude Flight (Dude 01 and Due 02)

Lieutenant Colonel Donald D. Cornwell, Lieutenant Colonel Dylan T. Wells, Captain Leigh P. Larkin, and First Lieutenant Nicholas R. Tsougas distinguished themselves by meritorious airmanship on 6 April 2010.  While operating as a flight of two F-15Es, callsigns Dude 01 and Dude 02, they were tasked to support a Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force team surrounded by over 100 enemy fighters in the town of Bala Morgab, Afghanistan.  With weather below rescue force launch minimums, Dude flight used Terrain Following Radar to execute five “Show of Force” passes in a valley surrounded by high terrain.  When hostilities escalated, Dude Flight expertly employed six Joint Direct Attack Munitions, helping kill over 80 Taliban fighters who occupied reinforced positions within the town.  Their efforts helped save the lives of approximately 30 coalition troops. There were no civilian causalities.  The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Dude Flight reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

2009 – The Crew of Pedro 16

The crewmembers of Pedro 16, an HH-60G Pavehawk, distinguished themselves under fire during rescue operations near Frontenac Forward Operating Base, Afghanistan on July 29, 2009. Demonstrating the utmost bravery, Pedro 16 and two Army OH-58s engaged enemy forces in an effort to defend and recover Pedro 15 who was downed by enemy fire. Pedro 16 landed, positioning their aircraft directly between enemy positions and the crew of Pedro 15. With rounds falling within 10 meters, Pedro 16 evacuated 6 USAF aircrew and 3 US Army soldiers from the hot landing zone. The selfless actions of Pedro 16 reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

Crew of Pedro 16
Captain Robert Rosebrough
First Lieutenant Luke Will
Master Sergeant Dustin Thomas
Master Sergeant Mark Bedell
Master Sergeant Mark McHan
Staff Sergeant Andrew Rios
Staff Sergeant Tim Philpott

2008 – The Crew of Bone 23

The B-1 crew of BONE 23 distinguished themselves as aircrew members, 37th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar on 13 July 2008. On that date while flying in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, the crew of BONE 23 was tasked to support troops in contact at Vehicle Patrol Base Wanat. A two hundred strong enemy force was attacking and sure to overrun the base. When the Joint Terminal Attack Controller requested a two thousand pound guided weapon, the crew realized friendly forces were in Danger Close range and suggested a five hundred pound guided weapon. Faced with a critical fuel situation, the crew coordinated to move their tanker closer providing more time on station. Within thirty minutes, BONE 23 accomplished three bomb runs decisively slowing the enemy attack, allowing coalition forces to regroup. The distinctive accomplishments of the BONE 23 crew reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

Crew of BONE 23
Major Norman Shelton
First Lieutenant Boyd K. Smith
Captain Kaylene J. Giri
Captain Louis M. Heidema

2007 – Panther One One Flight, Pacific Air Forces

The PANTHER One One flight distinguished themselves by meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight as a four ship of F-16CJ’s, 13th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, 332d Expeditionary Operations Group, 332d Air Expeditionary Wing, Balad Air Base, Iraq from 12 August 2007 to 13 August 2007. During this period PANTHER flight was hand-picked to fly a 10.9 hour mission to strike 16 high value targets within the Tora Bora region of Afghanistan. Expert airmanship ensured mission accomplishment of the first Balad based F-16CJ’s to support Operation ENDURING FREEDOM and the first ever employment of GBU-38 airburst munitions in combat, all planned and executed in less than 24 hours. Due to the mission’s highly sensitive nature PANTHER flight had to coordinate routing with control agencies that had no prior knowledge of the sortie while covertly transiting the airspace of six foreign nations. With a two minute time-on-target window over 2,100 miles from their home base, the flights expertise guaranteed delivery of the weapons and successful destruction of 15 entrenched enemy fighting positions clearing the way for ground forces to raid a high-level Taliban meeting. Approaching a dangerously low fuel state, PANTHER flight coordinated real-time for supplemental fuel from a residual tanker allowing for the safe return of four F-16CJs to Balad Air Base, Iraq. The professional skill and airmanship displayed by PANTHER One One flight reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

Crew of Panther One One
Colonel Charles L. Moore
Lieutenant Colonel Stephen C. Williams
Captain Lawrence T. Sullivan
Captain Kristopher W. Struve

2006 – Captain Scott L. Markle

An A-10 pilot with the 81st Fighter Squadron, in recognition of his heroic flight in the airspace over southern Afghanistan on June 16 in support of troops in combat during Operation Enduring Freedom. Captain Markle arrived on scene to find the team engaged in hand-to-hand combat and expecting to be overrun by the enemy. Unable to employ weapons due to the close proximity of the team, he flew a dangerously low pass over the enemy while dispensing self protection flares. After the ground controller noted the effectiveness of the pass in momentarily ceasing the enemy’s fire, Captain Markle performed three additional passes, allowing the team to pull back farther each time.

2005 – Crew of Train 60

Train 60 crewmembers distinguished themselves as C-130E instructor aircrew, Advisory Support Team, Ali Airbase, Iraq. As instructors to the newly formed Iraqi Air Force, members of the Train 60 crew ensured the success of the first-ever combat mission flown by an all-Iraqi aircrew. The crew’s unprecedented mission was to act as the inaugural Iraqi “Air Force One” by transporting the Iraq’s Prime Minister from Baghdad to Al Sulaymania for a ceremony commemorating Iraq’s new democratic government. During the mission, Train 60 crewmembers instructed Iraqi aircrew members on flight procedures in a combat environment. Their efforts ensured the safety of the crew and the Iraqi head of state during this landmark airlift event. The distinctive accomplishments of the Train 60 crewmembers reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

2004 – 41st Rescue Squadron and 38th Rescue Squadron

Jolly 11 and Jolly 12 crewmembers distinguished themselves by gallantry in connection with rescue operations near Kharbut, Iraq, on April 16, 2004. On this date, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, Jolly 11 Flight launched to rescue a five person crew of a U.S. Army CH-47 that crashed in a sandstorm with near zero visibility. En route to the crash scene, crews realized their forward looking infra-red and night vision goggles were ineffective. Continuing to use each crewmember to their fullest degree, Jolly 11 Flight was able to locate the survivors. Both aircraft then made near zero visibility approaches relying nearly exclusively on the flight engineers and aerial gunners inputs for precision navigation. Following the successful survivor contacts and recovery by the Flight’s Pararescuemen, Jolly 11 and Jolly 12 were individually engaged by separate multiple surface-to-air missiles attacks. Using evasive maneuvers and working as a fine-tuned, combat seasoned team, Jolly 11 evaded two missiles. Both Jolly 11 and Jolly 12 continued to provide mutual wingman support with defensive fire until the formation was clear of the threat area saving the lives of five U.S. Army personnel. Their gallantry and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

Jolly 11 Crew
1Lt Bryan Creel
Capt Joseph Galletti
Sgt Thomas Ringheimer
SSgt Vincent J. Eckert
SSgt John Griffin
SSgt Patrick Ledbetter

Jolly 12 Crew
Capt Rob Wrinkle
1Lt Gregory Rockwood
TSgt Michael Preston
TSgt Paul Silver
SSgt Matthew Leigh
SSgt Michael Rubio
SrA Edward Ha

2003 – VIJAY 10, 7th Airlift Squadron

The crew of VIJAY 10 demonstrated leadership, initiative and heroic service in leading Operation NORTHERN DELAY on March 26, 2003, the beginning of the United States military action in Iraq. The crew directed the insertion of 15 C-17A strategic transport aircraft, the largest formation airdrop since World War II. The mission resuled in the safe and successful airdop of 990 paratroopers and 20 heavy platforms into Bashur Airfield. The crew worked in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and effectively established the United States’ second front in Iraq. The superb execution of this presidential-directed mission significantly contributed to the U.S. miltary’s success. The distinctive accomplishements of the crew of the VIJAY 10 reflect great credit upon themselves and the United States Air Force.

VIJAY 10 Crew
Lieutenant Colonel Mark S. Hershman
Major Robert B. Colvin
First Lieutenant Matthew J. Clausen
Master Sergeant Christopher L. Dockery
Master Sergeant Shawn E. Brumfield

2002 – Grim 31, 16th Special Operations Squadron

For rescuing 82 U.S. Army soldiers–28 of whom were injured–trapped in a rugged valley in Afghanistan by Taliban and Al-Qaeda forces. The 14-man crew of an Air Force AC-130 Spectre gunship engaged the enemy from overhead during a two-hour, night-time operation that permitted two Black Hawk helicopters to land and pick up the battered troops.

2001 – 20th Special Operations Squadron Knife 04

For rescuing the crew of a sister ship under extremely hazardous weather conditions behind enemy lines in Afghanistan.

2000 – Airevac E10E1 and E10E2 Missions, 75th Airlife Squadron, 86th Aeromedical

For performing heroic rescue efforts in record time for victims of the USS Cole tragedy during the 6,000 mile round-trip journey between Aden, Yemen; Djibouti, Africa and Ramstein, Germany. Aircrew members responded brilliantly and launched two rescue C-9 crews within one hour of alert.

E10E1 Mission Crew
LtCol Marlon Nailling
Maj John Andrus
Maj Kathryn Drake
Maj David Sellars
Capt Richard Hunt
Capt Kevin Keith
Capt Karey Dufour
Capt Karin Petersen
Capt Donna Fournier
1Lt Lucas Jobe
SSgt Edward Franceschina
SSgt Heather Robertson
SSgt Bradley Atherton
SSgt Ryan Reller
SrA Chad Schusko
SSgt Brian Hoffmeyer

E10E2 Mission
Col Byron Hepburn
LtCol Linda Torrens
Maj Jonas Allman
Maj. Thomas Jenkins
Maj Lola Casby
Maj Jeffrey Davis
Capt Raymond Chehy
Capt Natalie Sykes
Capt Michael Smith
Capt Tim Carter
1Lt Jennifer Bagozzi
SSgt Alan Wooldridge
SSgt Kelly Pollard
SSgt Trent Arnold
SSgt Juan Garza
SrA Anna Duffner
Critical Care Air Transport Team
Col David Welling, USAF
Maj Stephan A. Alkins, USA
Capt Raymond M. Nudo, USAF
Capt Andrew J. Reynolds, USAF
Capt Bernd T. Wegner, USAF
SSgt Chyrise M. Jenkins, USAF
SSgt Christopher E. Whited, USAF

1999 – Capt. Jeffery G. J. Hwang

In recognition of an exceptionally meritorious F-15C flight during combat operations in support of Operation ALLIED FORCE when he simultaneously destroyed two enemy aircraft during a single intercept.

1998 – Air Force Rescue 470, 210th Rescue Squadron, Kulis Angb, Anchorage Alaska

For making a daring mountaintop rescue of six survivors trapped inside an airplane which had crashed on a glacier during a near-zero visibility approach in winds gusting to 45 knots.

1997 – MC-130H, 7th Special Operations Squadron, Crew of Whisk 05

For overcoming hostile gunfire, three heavyweight air refuelings, and over 13 hours flying 3,179 nautical miles to their objective to insert a European survey and assessment team and extract 56 people from the carnage and wanton violence in Brassaville, Republic of Congo, achieving this goal while on the ground for less than 23 minutes.

Crew of Whisk-05
Lt Col Frank J. Kisner
Maj (Dr.) Robert S. Michaelson
Capt John C. Baker
Capt Reed Foster
Capt Mark J. Ramsey
Capt Robert P. Toth
MSgt Gordon H. Scott
TSgt Tom L. Baker
SSgt John D. Hensdill
SSgt Jeffrey A. Hoyt

1996 – B-52H, Duke 01 Flight, Combat Air Command

For performing the first combat employment of the B-52H in history.

1995 – B-1B Bat-01 Flight, 9th Bombardment Squadron, Dyess AFB,TX Air Combat Command

For the history-breaking, aerial achievement flight of the decade demonstrating the B-1B Global Power combat capability with live bombing activity and three bombing ranges on three continents in two hemispheres.

Crew of BAT-01
Lt Col Doug Raaberg
Capt Gerald Goodfellow
Capt Kevin Clotfelter
Capt Rick Carver
Capt Chris Stewart
Capt Steve Adams
Capt Kevin Houdek
Capt Steve Reeves

1994 – HH-60G Aircrews 206 and 208, 56th Rescue Squadron, Keflavik Nas, Iceland, Air Combat Command

For extraordinary heroism and self-sacrifice during the rescue of six Icelandic sailors who were stranded when their ship foundered in heavy seas and strong winds.

Crew of Air Force Rescue 206
Capt John W. Blumentritt
Capt Gary W. Henderson
SRA Jeffrey M. Frembling
SSGT Matthew A. Wells
SRA Jesse W. Goerz

Crew of Air Force Rescue 208
Lt Col James A. Sills
Lt Col Gary L. Copsey
Lt Richard E. Assaf
TSgt Gregory M. Reed
SR William R. Payne

1993 – B-52 Crew E-21, 668th Bomb Squadron, Griffis Afb, NY

For quick thinking, immediate reaction, and astute situational awareness enabling them to return a crippled B-52 aircraft to stable flight and safe landing.

B-52 Crew E-21
Capt Jeffrey R. Swegel
Maj Peter B. Mapes
Capt Charles W. Patnaude
Lt Glen J. Caneel
Capt Joseph D. Rosmarin

1992 – C-130 Aircrew, 310th Airlift Squadron, Howard AFB, Panama, Air Combat Command

For extraordinary resourcefulness and unusual presence of mind during an unprovoked attack in international airspace.Capt Peter B. Eunice.

C-130 Aircrew
Capt Daniel G. Sobel
Capt Robert K. Stith
Maj Christopher J. Duncan
MSGT Joseph C. Beard, Jr.
MSgt Carl V. Wilson
TSgt John H. Armintrout
TSgt Charles G. Bolden
TSgt Rory E. Calhoun
TSgt Ray A. Fisher
TSgt Peter J. Paquette
TSgt Andrew W. Toth
TSgt Darren R. Tresler
SSgt Ronald P. Hetzel

1991 – MH-53J Pave Low Crew, 20th Special Operations Squadron. Hurlburt Field, Florida, Air Force Special Operations Command.

For extraordinary heroism and self-sacrifice of the crew during the rescue of a downed Navy F-14 pilot in Iraq.

MH-53J Pave Low Crew
Capt Thomas J. Trask
Maj Michael Homan
MSgt Timothy B. Hadrych
TSgt Gregory Vanhyning
TSgt James A. Peterson, Jr.
SSgt Craig Dock
Sgt Thomas W. Bedard

1990 – Crew of AC-130H, Mission #1J1600GA354, 16th Special Operations Squadron, Air Force Special Operations Command

For airmanship and outstanding professionalism during aerial flight over the Republic of Panama during Operation JUST CAUSE.

Crew of AC-130H
Capt Phillip D. Ladd
Capt William R. Lane
Capt John M. Hicks
Capt Charles G. McMillan
Lt Col Billy B. Napier
Capt Michael A. Radford
MSgt  Jerry L. Anderson
Sgt Stephen H. Jones
SMSgt Michael J. Hosenbackez
TSgt Glenn P. Lemay
SSgt Mark S. Johnson
TSgt Tony J. May
TSgt Bruce H. Grieshop
SSgt Larry D. Bower

1989 – 96th Bombardment Wing B-1B Crew, Strategic Air Command

For the first-ever gear-up emergency landing of a B-1B aircraft.

96th Bombardment Wing B-1B Crew
Capt Jeffrey K. Beene
Capt Vernon B. Benton
Lt Col Joseph G. Day
Capt Robert H. Hendricks

1988 – Captian Michael Eastman and the C-5 Crew Assigned to the 436th Military Airlift Wing (MAC)

For flying the first of the missions carrying equipment used to monitor nuclear testing to the Soviet Republic of Kazakhstan for joint verification experiments.

1987 – Detachment 15. Air Force Plant Representative Office and B-1B System Program Office, Air Force Systems Command

1986 – Crew of KC-10, SAC’s 68th Air Refueling Wing

Following a precipitous and hazardous launch in near zero-zero weather, the crew of a KC-10 Extender assigned to SAC’s 68th Air Refueling Wing provided emergency refueling to a KC-10 and three A-4 Skyhawk over the Atlantic Ocean on 5 March 1986.

Crew of KC-10
Capt Marc D. Felman
Capt Thomas M. Ferguson
MSgt Clarence Bridges, Jr.
MSgt Patrick S. Kennedy
MSgt Gerald G. Treadwell
Tech Sgt Lester G. Bouler
Tech Sgt Gerald M. Lewis
SSgt Samuel S. Flores
SSgt Scott A. Helms
SSgt Gary L. Smith

1985 – LT. Col David E. Faught

For heroism and outstanding airmanship thus saving the lives of eight crewmembers and preventing the loss of an irreplaceable aircraft.

1984 – LT. Col James L. Hobson, Jr.

As aircraft commander of the lead MC-130E during the Grenada rescue mission.

1983 – KC-135A Crew E-113 of the Strategic Air Command

For outstanding achievement while on a routine refueling mission involving F-4E aircraft, saving a valuable aircraft from destruction and its crew from possible death.

KC-135A Crew E-113
Capt Robert J. Goodman
Capt Michael F. Clover
Capt Karol F. Wojcikowski
SSgt Douglas D. Simmons

1982 – B-52 Crew E-21, Strategic Air Command

For successfully landing their crippled B-52, under almost impossible conditions, thereby saving their lives and a valuable aircraft.

B-52 Crew E-21
Capt Ronald L. Cavendish
2nd Lt Frank A. Boyle
Capt Ronald D. Nass
1st Lt James D. Gray
1st Lt Michael J. Connor
TSgt Ronald B. Wright
1st Lt Gerald E. Valentini

1981 – Captain John J. Walters

For extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as HH-3 Helicopter Commander in the rescue of 61, in adverse conditions, from the burning cruise ship “Prinsendam.”

1980 – Crews S-21 and S-31, 644th Bombardment Squadron, Strategic Air Command

For executing a nonstop, around-the-world mission with the immediate objective of locating and photographing elements of the soviet navy operating in the Arabian Gulf.

1979 – Major James E. Mcardle, Jr.

For professional competence and aerial skill in rescuing 28 Taiwanese seamen from a sinking cargo ship.

1978 – Members of C-5 Aircrew Mission AM 770021

Two C-5 aircrews composed of members from the 436th Military Airlift Wing distinguished themselves by conducting a historic flight into Africa. This mission was the first C-5 airlift mission in support of the free world effort against rebel forces in Zaire.

3 MAS Crew
Lt.Col  Robert F. Schultz
Capt John A. Messerly
Maj John K. Roberts
Lt.Col Daniel W. Pruitt
Capt Herbert N. Schaunaman, Jr.
TSgt Owen L. Conlin
SSgt Raymond D. Stebleton
TSgt Joe L. Dickey
A1C Danny F. Jennings
SrA Christopher A. Heitkamp
Sgt John E. Legere
Sgt David A. Kreyssig
SrA William W. Tepper

9 MAS Crew
Capt Todd H. Hohberger
Capt Michael R. Smith
Capt John P. Foley, Jr.
Capt Douglas K. Kronemeyer
Capt Michael A. Wright
Maj Jon S. Hillhouse
MSgt Charles E. Harper
TSgt Fred A. Booth, Jr.
TSgt Joseph J. Clay
SSgt David B. Pierson
A1C Thomas F. O’Brien
A1C Mark S. Homan

1977 – Captian David M. Sprinkel and Crew of C-5 Aircrew Mission AAM 1921-01

The aircrew, composed of members from the 436th Military Airlift Wing and the 512th Military Airlift Wing, airlifted a large super conducting electromagnet, support equipment, and personnel in support of joint US-USSR energy research program.

Crews of 436th & 512th Military Airlift Wing
Capt David M. Sprinkel
Capt Robert M. Murdock
Capt John M. Zinkievich
Capt Peter D. Jones
1st Lt Richard D. Surman
CMSgt Ronald C. Euscher
SMSgt Charles S. Beck
MSgt Lester E. Finney
TSgt Glen W. Eskridge
TSgt Gerald P. Slocum
SSgt George C. Marasco
SSgt George S. Stacey
SSgt Robert D. McLendon
SSgt James C. Krause
SSgt Robert A. Mooney
SrA Thomas P. J. Naravaez
A1C John M. Thompson

1976 – Captian James A. Yule

For gallantry and unusual presence of mind while participating in a flight as an instructor pilot of a B-52D aircraft.

1975 – Maj Robert W. Undorf

For conspicuous gallantry, initiative and resourcefulness during the joint military operation to rescue and insure the return of the SS Mayguez crew from an opposing armed force on Koh Tang, an island in the Gulf of Thailand.

1974 – Major Roger J. Smith, Major David W. Peterson, Major Willard R. Macfarlane

For extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as F-15 Advanced Tactical Fighter Test Pilots during Operation Streak Eagle, during which time eight world class time-to-climb records were established.

1973 – Operation Homecoming, Miliarty Airlife Command Crews

For the diligent and dynamic efforts of each crewmember of Operation Homecoming, the return of the prisoners of war to United States control.

1972 – Capt Richard S. Richie, Capt Charles B. Debellevue, Capt Jeffery S. Feinstein

For their extraordinary gallantry, superb airmanship, and intrepidity in the face of the enemy.

1971 – Lt Col Thomas B. Estes, Maj Dewain C. Vick

For their operation of an SR-71 aircraft which established new world records for duration and distance covered, thereby proving the extended supersonic reconnaissance capability of this aircraft.

1970 – Capt Alan D. Milacek and His Crewmembers

For their valor and perseverance in accomplishing a vital mission and returning their aircraft to its base despite severe damage.

Capt Milacek’s Crew
Capt James A. Russell
Capt Roger E. Clancy
Capt Ronald C. Jones
Capt Brent C. O’Brien
TSgt Albert A. Nash
SSgt Adolfo Lopez, Jr.
SSgt Ronald R. Wilson
Sgt Kenneth E. Firestone
A1C Donnell H. Cofer

1969 – 49th Tactical Fighter Wing

For a flawless deployment of 72 F-4D aircraft from Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, to Holloman AFB, New Mexico without a single abort, completing 504 successful air-to-air refuelings on the 5,000 mile trip.

1968 – Lt Col Daryl D. Cole

For conspicuous gallantry as a C-130 pilot in the emergency evacuation of personnel in Vietnam.

1967 – Maj John J. Casteel, Capt Dean L. Hoar, Capt Richard L. Trail (Of Strategic Air Command)

For their exemplary courage and outstanding aerial accomplishments by performing the first multiple air refueling between a KC-135 aircraft and an A-3 Navy tanker which simultaneously refueled a Navy F-8 Crusader under emergency fuel shortages and combat condition.

1966 – Lt Col Albert R. Howarth

For his exemplary courage and airmanship as a pilot in a combat strike mission in southeast Asia under most hazardous conditions of darkness and intense enemy fire.

1965 – YF-12A/SR-71 Test Force

For the most meritorious flight of the year in the YF-12A aircraft, which culminated in the establishment of nine new world speed and altitude records.

YF-12A/SR-71 Crew
Col Robert L. Stephens
Lt Col Daniel Andre
Lt Col Walter F. Daniel
Maj Noel T. Warner
Maj James P. Cooney

1964 – 464th Troop Carrier Wing (TAC)

For its participation in the humanitarian airlift of some 1,500 hostages and refugees from rebel held territory in the Republic of Congo during November 1964.

1963 – Crew of C-47 “Extol Pink”

For the evacuation of wounded troops in Vietnam at night under enemy fire.

Crew of C-47 “EXTOL PINK”
Capt. Warren P. Tomsett
Capt John R. Ordemann
Capt Donald R. Mack
TSgt Edson P. Inlow
SSgt Jack E. Morgan
SSgt Frank C. Barrett

1962 – Maj Robert G. Sowers, Capt Robert MacDonald, Capt John T. Walton

For the most meritorious flight of the year as members of a SAC B-58 crew which established three transcontinental speed records.

1961 – Lt Col William R. Payne, Maj Willian L. Polthemus, Maj Raymond R. Wagener (Of The 43rd Bomb Wing, Strategic Air Command)

For their historic nonstop flight from Carswell AFB, Texas to Paris, France, which culminated in the establishment of two international speed records.

1960 – 659rd Test Squadron

For its first aerial recovery of an object from space orbit.

1959 – 4520th Aerial Demonstration Team (Thunderbirds)

For its goodwill tour of the Far East.

1958 – Tactical Air Command’s Air Strike Force X-Ray Tango

For its rapid and effective deployment to the troubled Far East during the fall of 1958.

1957 – 93rd Bombardment Wing, Strategic Air Command

For executing operation “Powerflight”, the first jet around-the-world, nonstop record breaking flight by three B-52 aircraft.

1956 – Capt Iven Kincheloe, Jr., ARDC

For outstanding contributions to the science of aviation by flying the Bell X-2 aircraft to an altitude considerably higher than had ever been reached before in a piloted aircraft.

1955 – Col Horace A. Hanes

For establishing a world speed record of 822.135 mph in a F-100C aircraft at the National Air Show.

1954 – 308 Bombardment Wing (M), 38th Air Division, Strategic Air Command

For successfully completing a leap from intercontinental maneuver, a milestone in expanding and proving the combined operational capabilities of the B-47 bombardment aircraft and in determining fatigue limits of combat crews.

1953 – 40th Air Division, Strategic Air Command

For deployment of 25 F-84G jet fighter aircraft, utilizing air refueling, under adverse conditions, flying non-stop from the continental United States to bases in the United Kingdom and North Africa.

1952 – Maj Louis H. Carrington, Jr., Maj Frederick W. Shook, Capt Wallace D. Yancey

For the first non-stop trans-Pacific flight of an RB-45 multi-engine jet bomber type aircraft, a distance of 3,460 nautical miles in 9 hours, 50 minutes, with two air refuelings.

1951 – Col Fred J. Ascani

For establishing a new world record of 635.686 mph in the 100 kilometer closed course event at the National Air Races.

1950 – 27th Fighter Wing

For planning and executing the mission of Fox Able Three involving movement of 180 jet fighter aircraft across the Atlantic Ocean.

1949 – Captain James G. Gallagher and Flight Crew of Lucky Lady II

For the first around-the-world nonstop flight.

1948 – Lt Col Emil Beadry

For the rescue of twelve marooned airmen from the Greenland icecap.

1947 – Capt Charles E. Yeager

For the first supersonic flight in the XS-1.

1946 – 1940

No trophies awarded.

1939 – Maj Caleb V. Haynes, Maj William D. Old, Capt John A. Samford, 1st Lt Richard S. Freeman, 1st Lt Torgil S. Wold, Tsgt William J. Heldt, Tsgt Henry L. Hones, Tsgt David L. Spicer, Ssgt Russell E. Junior, Ssgt James E. Sands, M/Sgt Adolph Cattarius

For their flight in the B-15 from Langley Field, VA via Panama and Lima, Peru at the request of the American Red Cross, for the purpose of placing without delay, urgently needed vaccines and other medical supplies in areas of Chile devastated by an earthquake. Elasped time: 40 hrs. 18 mins. Flying time: 29 hrs 53 mins. Great Circle Distance: 4,933 statue miles.

1938 – Lt Col Robert Olds and the 2nd Bombardment Group of the Air Corps

For their good will flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina and return.

1937 – Capt Carl J Crane, Capt George V, Holloman

For their successful development and demonstration flights of the Automatic Landing System.

1936 – Capt Richard E. Nugent, 1 Lt Joseph A. Miller, 1 Lt Edwin G. Simenson, 2 Lt William P. Ragsdale, Jr., 2 Lt Burton W. Armstrong, 2 Lt Herbert Morgan, Jr., Tsgt Gilbert W. Olson, Ssgt Howard M. Miller, Cpl Air Mechanic 2/C Frank B. Conner

For demonstration of expert instrument flying and navigation, and the will to overcome obstacles to accomplish their mission under exceptionally adverse weather conditions during a flight of three B-10 s from Langley Field, VA to Allegan, MI.

1935 – Capt A. W. Stevens, Capt O. A. Anderson

For world balloon record stratosphere flight to 72,395 feet.

1934 – Brig Gen Henry H. Arnold

As Commanding Officer of the Alaskan flight (from Bolling Field, D. C. to Fairbanks, Alaska of 10 B-10 Bombers.

1933 – Capt West Side T. Larson

For his pioneering flights in connection with the development of methods and procedure of Aerial Frontier Defense during the year 1933.

1932 – 11th Bombardment Squadron of March Field, California, 1st Lt Charles H. Howard, Commanding Officer

For the air relief mission to the snowbound Navajo and Hopi Indians in January.

1931 – Brig Gen Benjamin D. Foulois

As commander of 1st Air Division (Provisional) for its exercises in May 1931, flying for a total of approximately 40,000 hours, suffered no loss of life or serious injury to any participating personnel.

1930 – Maj Ralph Roycw

For the “Artic Patrol” flight of the First Pursuit Group from Selfridge Field to Spokane, Washington and return in January, 1930 during a period of extreme cold, snow and other bad flying and operating conditions, which resulted in valuable information being gathered concerning airplanes, equipment, and flying personnel carrying on under severe winter operating conditions.

1929 – Capt A. W. Steven

For his mastery of the upper air and his use of long-range photography.

1928 – Lt. Harry A. Sutton

For his quiet bravery, intelligence, skill and spirit performing spinning tests of observation planes.

1927 – Lt. Albert Hegenberger, Lt Lester J. Maitland

For Hawaiian flight, June 28, 1927, in an Atlantic C.A.

1926 – Pam American Good Will Flyers: Maj Herbert A. Dargue, Capt Ira C. Eaker, Capt Arthur B. Mcdaniel, Capt C. F. Woolsey, 1st Lt J. W. Benton, 1st Lt Charles McRobinson, 1st Lt Mauir S. Fairchild, 1st Lt Bernard Thomson, 1st Lt Leonard D. Weddingon, 1st Lt Ennis C. Whitehead

1925 – Lt. James H. Doolittle, Lt. Cyrus K. Bettis

For winning the Schneider and Pulitzer Races.

1924 – Capt Lowell H. Smith, 1st Lt Leslie P. Arnold, 1st Leigh Wade, 1st Lt Erik H. Nelson, 2nd Lt Henry H. Ogden

For first round-the-world flight.

1923 – Lt John A. Macready, Lt. Oakley G. Kelly

For a Non-Stop Transcontinental Flight.

1922 – Lt John A. Macready, Lt. Oakley G. Kelly

For the World’s Duration Record.

1921 – Lt John A. Macready

For the World’s Altitude Record.

1920 – Capt St. Clair Streett, 1st Lt Clifford C. Nutt, 2nd Lt Erik H. Nelon, 2nd Lt. C. H. Crumrine, 2nd Lt. Ross C. Kirkpatrick, Sgt Edmond Henriques, Sgt. Albert T. Vierra, Sgt Joe E. English

For their flights to Nome, Alaska and return.

1919 – Lt Belvin N Maynard, Lt Alexander Pearson, Jr., Lt R. S. Northington, Capt John O. Donaldson, Cap. Lowell H. Smith, Lt. Col Harold E. Hartney, Lt E. M. Manzelman, Lt. B. G. Bagby, Lt. D. B. Gish, Capt F. Steinle

For their flights between the Atlantic and Pacific and return.

1918 – Capt Edward Rickenbacker

For his official record in bringing down 16 enemy aircraft.

1916 – 1917

No trophies awarded.

1915 – Lt B. Q. Jones

For the American duration record: one-man flight of 8 hours, 53 minutes, San Diego; and for World Record for 3 men (2 passengers) of 7 hours, 5 minutes, San Diego.

1914 – Capt Townsend F. Dodd, Lt S. W. Fitsgerald

For reconnaissance.

1913 – 2nd Lt Joseph E. Carberry, 2nd Lt Fred Seydel

For reconnaissance.

1912 – Lt JHenry H. Arnold