Journal 2020 : simplebooklet.com

and 3,600 statute miles; beginning from Long Island, NY and landing in Paris, France. Lindbergh, the ‘Lone Eagle’, is a legacy member of e Distinguished Flying Cross Society. e Distinguished Flying Cross Society itself (DFCS) was founded in 1994, as a 501(c) (19) nonprot organization, headquartered in San Diego, CA, and is made up of those men and women who were awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and their relatives. e Society currently has more than 6,000 members and was founded on the fraternity and fellowship among military iers. It seeks to preserve the rich heritage and historical narratives of those who are recipients of the DFC and to educate the general public, especially the youth of America, on the values of courage, patriotism and character; those very characteristics upon which America was founded. By doing so, it elevates the awareness of the award itself and demonstrates to the public that The DFC has been awarded to pilots and air crew in all ve of our services (United States Army, United States Navy, United States Marine Corps, United States Air Force and the United States Coast Guard). Recipients represent a diversity of backgrounds, ethnicity, rank and gender whose aerial achievements were chronicled from the chaos of combat, to epic rescues, out to the very edges of space. e Distinguished Flying Cross medal was established by an Act of Congress on July 2, 1926 to recognize the heroism of World War I pilots. However, the rst Distinguished Flying Cross citations were presented to civilian Pan American Flight crews on 2 May, 1927 by President Calvin Coolidge, for their ve ship, 22,000 mile ight. President Coolidge presented the rst Distinguished Flying Cross medal, on 11 June, 1927, to then Captain Charles A. Lindbergh of the Army Air Corps Reserve, for his solo ight of 33.5 hours a very small cross section of ordinary Americans can and have accomplished extraordinary things under extremely dicult conditions while in ight. e Character Development Program (CDP), produced by the Medal of Honor Foundation as an educational outreach, has recently been recognized by the DFCS as an extremely worthy cause and eorts are underway to lend the support of our membership toward that eort. An active scholarship program exists for the descendents of DFCS members. If you are a DFC recipient and would like to see the historical narrative of your award preserved to serve as an inspiration for future generations, go to the DFCS website at (www.dfcsociety.org) for information and requirements for joining our ranks. Families of a deceased DFC recipient are also encouraged to enroll their loved one posthumously and become an Associate member. For additional information, call our Toll-free number at 1- 866-332-6332.The Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) is our nation’s highest award for aerial achievement. As a valor decoration, it ranks fourth in order of precedence, and is awarded to recipients for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial ﬂight. Call to Action All DFC Marines!

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2020 Symposium 7 Leadership & Board of Directors NATIONAL COMMANDER LtGen Thomas L. Conant, USMC (Ret)DEPUTY CMDR, WESTLtGen Terry Robling, USMC (Ret)DEPUTY CMDR, EAST MajGen Jon Gallinetti, USMC (Ret) TREASURER Col Robert Deforge, USMC (Ret) ADJUNT Col Paul Fortunato, USMC (Ret) SERGEANT MAJOR SgtMaj Bill Oldenburg, USMC (Ret)LEGAL COUNSEL Col Art White, USMC (Ret)PREVIOUS NAT’L CMDRS LtGen Keith Stalder, USMC (Ret)LtGen John Castellaw, USMC (Ret)Gen William Nyland, USMC (Ret)WEST DISTRICT LEAD Col Earl Wederbrook, USMC (Ret)SOUTH DISTRICT LEAD Col Chris Seymour, USMC (Ret)SOUTHEAST DISTRICT LEAD Col John Gumbel, USMC (Ret)DISTRICT LEAD Col Laura Sampsel, USMC (Ret)NORTHEAST DISTRICT LEADCol Bruce Hulick, USMC (Ret)GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE LEAD Col Paul Croisetiere, USMC (Ret)MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE LEAD Col Michael Orr, USMC (Ret) STRATEGY COMMITTEE LEADCol Robert Claypool, USMC (Ret) AUDIT COMMITTEE LEAD Col Al Sullivan, USMC (Ret) AT-LARGECol Ben Matthews, USMC (Ret)Col John Ostrowski, USMC (Ret)MCAA StaffEXECUTIVE DIRECTORCol John Rader, USMC (Ret)DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS AND SENIOR EDITORRoxanne M. Kaufman rkaufman@ﬂymcaa.orgFINANCIAL SERVICES & MEMBERSHIPDebbie Martin MEMBERSHIP & EDITORIAL ASSISTANTMackensie Ward «MARINE CORPS AVIATION ASSOCIATION«HEADQUARTERS 715 Broadway Street Quantico, VA 22134703–630–1903As the National Commander for our Marine Corps Aviation Association (MCAA), it is my distinct honor to personally welcome you to Dallas, Texas. We truly appreciate your patience as we cleared many hurdles thrown at your Organization through most of 2020 and 2021. We are proud to nally be able to recognize our 2020 Marine Aviation Awardees during the 2021 Summit and Symposium. Representative John W. “Jack” Bergman is our 2021 Honorary Chairman and will personally congratulate our awardees for both 2020 and 2021, as we honor their role in contributing to the excellence of Marine aviation. In recognition of our return to an in-person Aviation Summit, our 38th Commandant of the Marine Corps, General David H. Berger, will present opening remarks early in the week. As always, we have partnered with the Deputy Commandant for Aviation, Lieutenant General Mark “Notso” Wise and his sta to bring a wide swath of Marne aviation to bear. We have planned a panel on our country’s role in Space, to include current Marine Aviator Astronauts, and the Honorable Charles Bolden, former NASA Director and retired Marine Corps Major General. Retired Marine Colonel Art Tomasetti will be our lunch speaker, who will address the early days of ight testing the F-35 Lightning. We expect a large crowd in Texas to engage with our guests and are condent that many will enjoy the week. We continue to be grateful for the fantastic support we have received from our Industry Partners. Our display area is full as industry partners are eager to share their technology and program eorts with our members. ank you again for your support and joining us in Texas, and we look forward to a productive 2020/2021 Symposium and Summit, and a week of uniting with fellow members of your MCAA after a long absence! Remember, in just ten months, we will be hosting the 2022 Symposium and Summit at the Town & Country in San Diego, California, from 15-22 May; please mark your calendars! COMMANDER’ScallLieutenant General Thomas L. “Stash” Conant, USMC (Retired) National Commander

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8 MCAA Journal www.ymcaa.orgCAPTAIN VALERIE K. SMITHGUNNERY SERGEANT JOAGENSKY DORCAPTAIN ALEXANDER BETZELSERGEANT SEAN MAHONEYVMFA-232 — MAG-11, 3D MAWMAJOR CALISCHARAN JAMESSERGEANT JOHN SAGRILLOVMA-223 — MAG-14, 2D MAWMALS-36 — MAG-36, 1ST MAWVMGR-352 — MAG-11, 3D MAWMWSS-371 — MWSG-37, 3D MAW MASS-2 — MACG-18, 1ST MAWALFRED A. CUNNINGHAM AWARDKENNETH W. SOUTHCOMB AWARDROBERT GUY ROBINSON AWARD PAUL G. VESS AWARDROBERT M. HANSON AWARDEARLE HATTAWAY AWARDGAINES B. GILBERT AWARDLAWSON H.M. SANDERSON AWARDDONALD E. DAVIS AWARDHENRY WILDFANG AWARDJAMES E. HATCH AWARD EDWARD S. FRIS AWARDAs the National Commander of the Marine Corps Aviation Association (MCAA) I am proud to present our 2020 MCAA Award Recipients. ese 28 Marines and their squadrons have shown exemplary achievement in their eld and greatly contributed to the successes of Marine aviation in 2019. Recognizing excellence in Marine aviation is the core mission of MCAA. Beginning in 1962, when we presented our rst trophy, the Alfred A. Cunningham Award, to then-Lieutenant Colonel John H. Glenn, Jr., until today we are honored to witness history in the making. e prestigious MCAA awards are named in honor of a Marine who made noteworthy contributions in his or her eld, with two exceptions: the Commandant’s Aviation Award and the Silver Hawk Award. e 28 awards span the spectrum of Marine aviation and recognize Marines of all ranks who are nominated by their superiors and vetted through Headquarters Marine Corps. Please take a moment to learn of their impressive contributions to the legacy of success of Marine air.

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Marine Aviator of the YearCaptain Valerie K. SmithHMH-465, MAG-16, 3D MAWFor professional achievement in the superior performance of her duties as CH-53E Helicopter Aircraft Commander, HMH-465, MAG-16, 3D MAW from 1 January to 31 December 2019. Captain Smith completed over 225 ﬂight hours and 175 sorties, while carrying over 400 passengers and 250,000 pounds of cargo. As the Pilot Training Ofﬁcer and Weapons and Tactics Instructor, she instructed over 100 Training and Readiness codes, which contributed to the accomplishment of over 80 advanced qualiﬁcations and designations for pilots and aircrew. Furthermore, she demonstrated her expertise in pre-ﬂight planning and superior judgment while acting as the Assault Flight Lead for an external-lift involving an 11,000 pound AH-1Z helicopter located on a remote island situated over 34 miles from Okinawa, Japan. She conducted the ﬁrst forward arming and refueling point operations with the F-35B Joint Strike Fighter in the Paciﬁc Theater. Captain Smith’s superior performance, outstanding leadership, and steadfast devotion to duty reﬂected great credit upon herself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.10 Alfred A. Cunningham AwardRolls-Royce North AmericaEstablished in honor of Lieutenant Colonel Alfred A. Cunningham, the ﬁrst Marine aviator, by the First Marine Aviation Veterans’ Association for the most outstanding contribution to Marine aviation by a Marine aviator.ALFRED A. CUNNINGHAM AWARDSPONSORED BY

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Marine Naval Flight Officer of the YearCaptain Alexander B. BetzelVMFA(AW)-533, MAG-31, 2D MAWFor professional achievement in the superior performance of his duties while serving as Weapons and Tactics Training Ofﬁcer, VMFA(AW)-533, MAG-31, 2D MAW, from 1 January to 31 December 2019. During this period, Captain Betzel performed his duties with a sense of purpose and initiative not common among his peers. He completed Marine Division Tactics Course and Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course, which enabled him to develop an annual training program to produce combat qualiﬁcations and elevate squadron tactical performance standards. He trained pilots across MAG-31 by coordinating and developing a live missile shoot exercise that resulted in the successful employment of 19 air-to-air missiles. As a weapons expert, he tactically led his aircrew through a successful integrated training exercise which resulted in over 310,000 pounds of high explosive ordnance. Captain Betzel’s professional ability and personal initiative reﬂected credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.12 Robert Guy Robinson Award Northrop Grumman Mission SystemsEstablished in honor of First Lieutenant Robert Guy Robinson, a Medal of Honor recipient in WWI and a pioneer of the Naval Flight Ofﬁcer specialty, for the most outstanding contribution by a Marine naval ﬂight ofﬁcer.ROBERT GUY ROBINSON AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Aviation Ground Officer of the YearMajor Calischaran G. JamesVMFAT-101, MAG-11, 3D MAWFor professional achievement in the superior performance of his duties as Aircraft Maintenance Ofﬁcer, VMFAT-101, MAG-11, 3D MAW from 1 January to 31 December 2019. During the Commander of Naval Air Forces inspection, he led a maintenance department four times the size of an average ﬂeet squadron to an impressive score of 93%. The squadron achieved perfect performance ratings on drills and practical proﬁciency examinations. He was instrumental in the support of Naval Air Systems Command to validate a management application that will provide a global repository for logsets. His leadership and guidance ensured the squadron achieved a 13% increase in Mission Capable rates and an 18% increase in Ready Basic Aircraft—the best numbers the squadron has achieved in the last four years while ﬂying 7,583 hours and producing 49 aircrew. Major James’ exceptional professionalism, initiative, and total dedication to duty reﬂected credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and United States Naval Service.Earle Hattaway Award 13Rolls-Royce North AmericaEstablished in honor of Lieutenant Colonel Earle Hattaway, the ﬁrst recipient of the Marine Aviation Ground Ofﬁcer of the Year Award, for the most outstanding contribution to Marine aviation by an aviation ground ofﬁcer.EARLE HATTAWAY AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Air Command/Control Officer of the YearCaptain Matthew A. DuncanMATCS-18, 1ST MAWFor exceptional achievement while serving as Liaison Ofﬁcer and Tactical Air Command Center Ofﬁcer, MATCS-18, MACG-18, 1st MAW from 1 January to 31 December 2019. His experience and knowledge while assigned to both the squadron and the 7th Air Force’s 607th Air and Space Operations Center enabled him to develop training opportunities, cement relationships, and reﬁne joint tactics, techniques, and procedures—increasing interoperability and integrating Marine aviation in the Korean Theater of Operations. He provided nearly 200 hours of service to the Air Force through supporting multiple real-world events and exercises, leading Control Group participation in Combined Command Post Training Event 19.2, planning support for Combined Flying Training Event 20.1, and consolidating Control Group liaisons to 7th Air Force into a cohesive detachment. His tireless efforts improved 1st MAW’s and 7th Air Force’s readiness and lethality. Captain Duncan’s initiative, perseverance, and total dedication to duty reﬂected credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.14 Robert F. Gibson Award General Dynamics Mission SystemsEstablished in honor of Colonel Robert F. Gibson, a pioneer in the concept of integrated air control group detachments supporting Marine aviation around the globe, for the most outstanding contribution to Marine aviation by an ofﬁcer serving in a Marine command and control unit.ROBERT F. GIBSON AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Aviator or NFO with the Earliest Naval Aviation Designation DateLieutenant General Robert F. HedelundCommanding General, Fleet Marine Force, AtlanticLieutenant General Robert F. Hedelund is currently assigned as the Commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces Command and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Northern Command, and Commanding General, Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic.A native of Pompano Beach, Florida, Hedelund graduated from Florida Atlantic University and was commissioned in April 1983. He was designated an unrestricted Naval Aviator in May 1985.Previous command assignments include Headquarters Squadron, Marine Aircraft Group 29; Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron (HMM) 162; Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1); Marine Corps Warﬁghting Laboratory (concurrently serving as the Vice Chief, Ofﬁce of Naval Research); the 2d Marine Aircraft Wing; U.S. Marine Corps Forces Korea; and II Marine Expeditionary Force.As a CH-46E pilot, Hedelund has deployed with HMM-264, HMM-365, and HMM-162. He has served as a Basic and Advanced Flight Instructor at Helicopter Training Squadron (HT) 18, NAS Whiting Field, Florida. Hedelund has also served as a CH-46E Instructor, Division Head and Assault Support Department Head at MAWTS-1, MCAS Yuma, Arizona. He has ﬂown over 5,200 ﬂight hours in rotary- wing, tilt-rotor, and ﬁxed-wing aircraft.Staff assignments include the Marine Corps Strategic Studies Group, MCCDC; U.S. Northern Command Desk Ofﬁcer, U.S. Joint Forces Command; Senior Military Assistant and Marine Aide to the Secretary of the Navy; Director, Marine and Family Programs Division (MF), Manpower & Reserve Affairs; Assistant Chief of Staff UCJ-5, United Nations Command, ROK-U.S. Combined Forces Command, U.S. Forces Korea.Lieutenant General Hedelund is a distinguished graduate of The Basic School and Marine Corps Command and Staff College. He has also attended the Air War College and Joint Force Air Component Command Course, Montgomery, Alabama, and the Joint Forces Staff College and CAPSTONE Program, Norfolk, Virginia.Silver Hawk Award 15The Boeing CompanyEstablished to honor the active duty Marine aviator or Marine naval ﬂight ofﬁcer holding the earliest designation date.SILVER HAWK AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Flight Student of the YearFirst Lieutenant Jody C. LambHT-28, MATSG-21, TECOMFor the most outstanding performance of a Marine Flight Student completing the Chief of Naval Aviation Training Advanced Helicopter Syllabus from 1 January to 31 December 2019. While assigned to Helicopter Training Squadron 28 at Naval Air Station Whiting Field, First Lieutenant Lamb distinguished himself from his peers by earning an 80.0 Naval Standard Score, a score attained by less than one percent of student Naval Aviators. His composite score upon designation as a Naval Aviator on 9 February was 313.56, placing him on the Training Air Wing Five (TW-5) Commodore’s List with Distinction: an honor given to only four percent of the students who complete training at TW-5. He continues to distinguish himself at Marine Light Attack Training Squadron 303 by excelling in the initial stages of training. First Lieutenant Lamb’s initiative, exceptional achievement, and total devotion to duty reﬂected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. 16 Frank E. Petersen Jr. Award Collins AerospaceEstablished in honor of Lieutenant General Frank E. Petersen, Jr. the ﬁrst African American Marine Corps general ofﬁcer and Marine aviator, to recognize superior performance of a Marine ﬂight student.FRANK E. PETERSEN, JR. AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Enlisted Marine Aircrewman of the YearSergeant Cameron D. ColucciVMM-764, MAG-41, 4th MAWFor professional achievement in the performance of his duties as Enlisted Aircrew Night Systems Instructor (NSI), Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Instructor, and as Quality Assurance Representative for VMM-764, MAG-41, 4th MAW, from 1 January to 31 December 2019. Sergeant Colucci coached enlisted aircrew through the completion of 51 initial training events and led countless hours of classroom discussions. While providing leadership in the air, he proved equally as valuable to the maintenance department by concurrently serving as the Quality Assurance Division’s Quality Assurance Representative (QSR). As a multi-systems QSR, he oversaw eleven maintenance programs and directly contributed to the squadron’s outstanding 4th MAW Maintenance Program Inspection results, the highest score in the entire Wing. Sergeant Colucci’s worthy performance—both in the air and on the ground—delivered a combined arms and direct impact to aviation safety, maintenance, and operations which reﬂected credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Unites States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.Danny L. Radish Award 17BAE Systems Electronic SystemsEstablished in honor of Master Gunnery Sergeant Danny L. Radish, who served in Marine aviation with distinction and heroism for over 23 years, for the most outstanding contribution by a Marine enlisted aircrewman.DANNY L. RADISH AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Aviation Maintenance Marine of the YearSergeant Gage D. MohelskyHMH-463, MAG-24, 1ST MAWFor professional achievment in the performance of his duties while serving as Colateral Duty Quality Assurance Representative, HMH-463, MAG-24, from 1 January to 31 December 2019. Sergeant Mohelsky’s tireless work ethic and technical abilities have set the standard all Marines should emulate. His ﬂawless management improved the proﬁciency and readiness of the ﬂightline Marines. While deployed with the 31st MEU, he completed 682 inspection hours and 251 maintenance man hours for 109 maintenance action forms, while also providing crucial training for the ﬂightline division and the CH-53E detachment. After redeployment, he excelled as a mentor and demonstrated capabilities beyond his rank as a Colateral Duty Quality Assurance Representative. His actions led to the completion of 1,275 man-hours and 462 maintenance action forms. His work during the deployment and after his return translated to 1,147 ﬂight hours and 861 sorties. Sergeant Mohelsky’s initiative, perserverence, and total dedication to duty reﬂected credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.18 Willie D. Sproule Award Elbit Systems of AmericaEstablished in honor of Gunnery Sergeant Willie D. Sproule, a leader in the ﬁeld of aviation maintenance who served with distinction for over 30 years, for the most outstanding contribution by an enlisted Marine serving in a maintenance billet.WILLIE D. SPROULE AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Aviation Supply Marine of the YearGunnery Sergeant Joagensky D. DorMALS-12, MAG-12, 1st MAWFor professional achievement in the superior performance of his duties as the Supply Management Division Audit Branch Staff Noncommissioned Ofﬁcer-in-Charge, MALS-12, MAG-12, 1st MAW, from 1 January to 31 December 2019. Gunnery Sergeant Dor dedicated over 100 hours to authoring the standard operating procedures (SOPs)for the Joint Strike Fighter Division. He also authored two appendices detailing inspection standards used to audit the Division. The SOPs and inspection appendices were both incorporated into an updated Aviation Supply Desktop Procedures Marine Corps Order and implemented throughout all of Marine aviation. Additionally, his dedication and unparalleled technical expertise enabled him to identify and correct 646 erroneous records, thereby enhancing inventory validity. Moreover, he streamlined the source of repair material awaiting shipping from over 100 days to just 14 days. Gunnery Sergeant Dor’s exceptional professionalism and loyal devotion to duty reﬂected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.Kenneth W. Southcomb Award 19Elbit Systems of AmericaEstablished in honor of Gunnery Sergeant Kenneth W. Southcomb, a leader in the ﬁeld of aviation supply who served with distinction for 30 years, for the most outstanding contribution by an aviation supply Marine.KENNETH W. SOUTHCOMB AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Avionics Marine of the YearSergeant Sean L. MahoneyVMFA-112, MAG-41, 4TH MAWFor professional achievement in the superior performance of his duties as Avionics Collateral Duty Quality Assurance Representative, VMFA-112, MAG-41, 4th MAW, from 1 January to 31 December 2019. During this period, Sergeant Mahoney performed more maintenance man hours than any Avionics Marine in VMFA-112. He personally signed off 35 percent of the squadrons Avionics work orders, averaged seven maintenance man hours per day, and executed over 1,750 total man hours, while simultaneously earning ﬁve professional qualiﬁcations. The “Cowboy” Maintenance department experienced an extremely high volume of aircraft turnover as it executed the F/A-18 reconstitution plan. Sergeant Mahoney was fundamental to the squadron’s success in this effort. He met every challenge with unmatched vigor and superb skill. Sergeant Mahoney’s exceptional professional ability, initiative, and total dedication to duty reﬂected credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.20 Paul G. Vess Award BAE Systems Electronic SystemsEstablished in honor of Master Gunnery Sergeant Paul G. Vess, a leader in the ﬁeld of avionics, who served with distinction for over 30 years, for the most outstanding contribution by an electronics technician.PAUL G. VESS AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Ordnance Marine of the YearSergeant John R. SagrilloVMA-214, MAG-13, 3D MAWFor professional achievement in the superior performance of his duties while serving as an aviation Ordnance Non-commissioned Ofﬁcer, VMA-214, MAG-13, 3D MAW from 1 January to 31 December 2019. Sergeant Sagrillo’s technical excellence, inspirational leadership while executing his duties working as a Work-Center Supervisor, Collateral Duty Quality Assurance Representative and Quality Assurance Safety Observer directly contributed to the success of the division and squadron as a whole. His drive, focus, and attention to detail resulted in more than 289 items processed, 1,300 man hours, and 373 maintenance action form sign-offs. His work ethic and technical knowledge led to 100 % aircraft armament system readiness, supporting over 422 ﬂight hours, and facilitated the expenditure of 250 tons of Class V-Ammunition valued at over 5.7 million dollars. His inﬂuence produced a culture of efﬁciency and effectiveness, resulting in increased qualiﬁcations and mission support readiness by 75%. His devotion to mission accomplishment and superior leadership contributed to the operational success of the ordnance division during combat operations from the 11th MEU and Isa Air Base, Bahrain. Sergeant Sagrillo’s exceptional professional ability, initiative, and loyal dedication to duty reﬂected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and United States Naval Service.Gaines B. Gilbert Award 21Raytheon TechnologiesEstablished in honor of Master Gunnery Sergeant Gaines B. Gilbert, a leader in the ﬁeld of aviation ordnance who served with distinction for 39 years, for the most outstanding contribution by an aviation ordnance technician.GAINES B. GILBERT AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Command/Control Marine of the YearGunnery Sergeant Tricia A. HarrellMACS-24, MACG-48, 4TH MAWFor professional achievement in the superior performance of her duties as Senior Air Trafﬁc Controller, MACS-24, Detachment A, from 1 January to 31 December 2019. During this period, Gunnery Sergeant Harrell performed her duties in a highly professional manner and distinguished herself as the most valuable Command and Control Marine in the Marine Corps. Her bold, decisive leadership was the driving force behind administratively and operationally preparing the detachment to deploy, ensuring combat readiness and mission success in OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE. Upon identifying a major discrepancy in the ﬂight inspection of the Tactical Navigational Aid, she spearheaded the efforts to coordinate with various federal agencies and provided a resolution. Hand-selected to stand up a Female Engagement Team, she developed and executed a training plan without any assigned tasking or mission, and molded a highly efﬁcient and cohesive unit. Gunnery Sergeant Harrell’s initiative, perseverance, and devotion to duty reﬂected credit upon herself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and United States Naval Service.22 Kenneth A. Innis Award Lockheed MartinEstablished in honor of Master Gunnery Sergeant Kenneth A. Innis for the most outstanding contribution by an enlisted Marine in the air command and control ﬁeld.KENNETH A. INNIS AWARDSPONSORED BY

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Aviation Ground Marine of the YearCorporal Ashley M. HernandezMACS-4, MACG-18, 1st MAWFor superior performance of duties as Embarkation Non-commissioned Ofﬁcer for MACS-4 from 1 January to 31 December 2019. Her devotion to duty and superior initiative were instrumental in supporting aviation operations throughout the Paciﬁc. Serving in this role, she ensured all the squadron’s equipment was prepared, inspected, and deployed for eight major exercises in Japan, Republic of Korea, Kingdom of Thailand, Australia, and Republic of the Philippines. Her attention to detail ensured safe transportation for 519 personnel, weapons, and 157 pieces of equipment weighing 511 short tons across 51,997 miles. Often acting as the Logistics Chief and Embarkation Chief, she planned, coordinated, and supervised the completion of each logistical function during unit’s two most extensive exercises in 2019. She contributed to the squadron’s ability to deploy to multiple countries following training objectives, enabling them to remain mission capable. By her initiative, perseverance, and dedication to duty, Corporal Hernandez reﬂected credit upon herself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.Jack W. Demmond Award 23Northrop GrummanInnovation SystemsEstablished in honor of Lieutenant Colonel Jack W. Demmond, who served Marine Corps aviation with versatility and distinction for over 29 years, for the most outstanding contribution by a ground Marine serving with Marine aviation.JACK W. DEMMOND AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Aviation Non-Commissioned Officer LeadershipSergeant Joseph J. McDonnellHMH-462, MAG-16, 3D MAWFor professional achievement in the superior performance of his duties while serving as CH-53E Airframes Division Non-commissioned Ofﬁcer-in-Charge and Collateral Duty Inspector, HMH-462, MAG-16, 3D MAW, from 1 January to 31 December 2019. His hard work, leadership, and dedication to his Marines and the squadron’s mission left a lasting and positive impact on Marine aviation. His “Ductus Exemplo” attitude pushed other Marines to excel in all areas during the squadron’s deployment to Okinawa and his direct mentorship of the Airframes Marines led to 1,072 training sign-offs. As a technical expert, he inspected over 354 maintenance action forms—accumulating over 1,500 maintenance man-hours and provided crucial training and experience for the Marines in the Airframes Division. As a result, the squadron ﬂew over 2,600 ﬂight hours, transported over 1,100 personnel, and moved over 500,000 pounds of cargo throughout the year. Sergeant McDonnell’s hard work, professionalism, and total dedication to duty reﬂected credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.24 James E. Nicholson Award Raytheon TechnologiesEstablished in honor of Lieutenant Colonel James E. Nicholson, “The Father of the MCAA,” who served with distinction as a member of the First Aeronautic Company in WWI, for the most signiﬁcant leadership by a noncommissioned ofﬁcer in Marine aviation.JAMES E. NICHOLSON AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Acquisition Excellence in Marine AviationMajor Nathaniel H. ThayerMarine Air Det, Pax RiverFor meritorious service as the AV-8B Joint System Support Activity (JSSA) Military Deputy, VX-31, from 1 January to 31 December 2019. Major Thayer expertly performed full-spectrum testing in the AV-8B, including air vehicle, handling qualities, sensor integration, and software developmental tests; weapons integration tests; operational tests; and testing of simulation systems. He skillfully led the JSSA in planning, execution, and reporting for all AV-8B test activities and solutions for ﬂeet issues. His commitment to excellence was crucial for the rapid return to ﬂight and ﬂight test after two successive major earthquakes struck China Lake during the summer. Major Thayer’s superb technical expertise with AV-8B systems and weapons, combined with his expert leadership of AV-8B ﬂight test in support of Marine Corps’ objectives, have ensured that the lethality, survivability, and relevancy of the Harrier will continue meeting the needs of the warﬁghter. Major Thayer’s efforts reﬂected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.Michael A. Hough Award 25FLIR TeledyneEstablished in honor of Lieutenant General Mike Hough, who served as the Deputy Commandant for Aviation and D irecto r of the Jo int S tr ike Fighter Program, to recognize superior achievement and excellence by a Marine assigned to the acquisition ﬁeld. MICHAEL A. HOUGH AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Exceptional Achievement in Marine AviationMaster Gunnery Sergeant Timothy M. HuberVMFAT-501, MAG-31, 2D MAWFor professional achievement in the superior performance of his duties while serving as Maintenance Chief, VMFAT-501, MAG-31, 2D MAW from 1 January to 31 December 2019. Master Gunnery Sergeant Huber was responsible for the maintenance effort on over thirty assigned F-35B aircraft and the department’s 600-plus maintenance personnel. He led the department’s preparation efforts for the successful return of nine F-35B aircraft to the United Kingdom—a strategic display of the expeditionary capabilities of the nation’s newest ﬁfth-generation ﬁghter. Due to his leadership, the maintenance department executed over 20,000 maintenance actions resulting in over 30,000 maintenance man-hours’ worth of work. This production led to the squadron executing over 4,000 sorties, more than 5,000 ﬂight hours, and facilitating training for 52 newly minted F-35B pilots. Master Gunnery Sergeant Huber’s leadership, initiative, and selﬂess devotion to duty reﬂected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.26 James Maguire Award PiaseckiEstablished in honor of Gunnery Sergeant James Maguire, the ﬁrst enlisted Marine ordered to aviation duty and served with Alfred A. Cunningham, for the most signiﬁcant contribution to Marine aviation by an individual or squadron, not otherwise recognized.JAMES MAGUIRE AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Fighter Attack Squadron of the YearVMFA-232MAG-11, 3D MAWFor outstanding performance and impressive levels of operational and maintenance readiness from 1 January to 31 December 2019. The “Red Devils” of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 (VMFA-232) started the year with exceptional maintenance inspection results and impressively supported the Indo-Paciﬁc Command area of responsibility by averaging ten mission capable aircraft, ﬂying over 1,450 ﬂight hours, and employing over 74,000 pounds of ordnance on the six-month deployment. VMFA-232 remained ready to ﬁght in garrison by executing a long-range aerial interdiction and long-range armed reconnaissance mission across the United States, demonstrating their capability to attack multiple targets separated by over 2,000 miles, conduct expeditionary advanced base operations, and integrate with ﬁfth-generation aircraft within one day. The squadron’s success is a result of the commitment to excellence from every Marine and Sailor in the command. This devotion to duty exhibited by the Red Devils of VMFA-232 reﬂected great credit upon themselves and upheld the highest traditions of the Unites States Marine Corps and United States Naval Service. Robert M. Hanson Award 27The Boeing CompanyEstablished in honor of Captain Robert M. Hanson, a Medal of Honor recipient and Ace who shot down 25 enemy aircraft before being killed in action, for the most outstanding ﬁghter attack squadron in Marine aviation.ROBERT M. HANSON AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Attack Squadron of the YearVMA-223MAG-14, 2D MAWFor outstanding meritorious achievement, Marine Attack Squadron 223, MAG-14, 2D MAW, from 1 January to 31 December 2019. The “Bulldogs” of VMA-223 supported OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE during the ﬁnal push to retake the remaining territory controlled by the Islamic State caliphate. They frequently employed weapons in “danger close” territory to friendly forces, transitioning to low collateral ordnance necessitated by an increasingly constricted urban battlespace. Their efforts led to siege and surrender of the ﬁnal Islamic State ﬁghters at the Baghuz Cliffs of the Middle Euphrates River Valley. Upon redeployment, VMA-223 implemented a plan to mitigate severe manpower shortages and continue pilot training and qualiﬁcations, fragged support of two forthcoming exercises, and simultaneously creating two Weapons Training Ofﬁcers, two Forward Air Controllers (Airborne), and one unrestricted Air Combat Training Instructor—all in the face of the Commanding General’s Inspection. The Bulldogs of VMA-223’s distinctive accomplishments, professionalism, and dedication reﬂected great credit upon themselves and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.28 Lawson H. M. Sanderson Award BAEEstablished in honor of Major General Lawson H. M. Sanderson, a pioneer in the development of dive-bombing and close air support in Marine aviation, for the most outstanding attack squadron in Marine aviation.LAWSON H. M. SANDERSON AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron of the YearVMGR-352MAG-11, 3D MAWFor meritorious achievement, professionalism, and exemplary performance from 1 January to 31 December 2019. The VMGR-352 “Raiders” distinguished themselves through superior levels of mission execution and support of 3D MAW, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Central Command, and OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE. The squadron executed a vast array of missions for I MEF—increasing combat readiness in elements across the force. They enabled successful evolutions for Expeditionary Operations Training Group; both Weapons and Tactics Instructor courses; Exercises Eager Lion, Steel Knight, and Winter Fury; and short notice missions. The Raiders demonstrated unrivaled support in the execution of nearly 7,000 ﬂight hours, the transport of over 13,500 passengers and 6.4 million pounds of cargo, and delivery of 4.4 million pounds of fuel. The disciplined planning and execution of VMGR-352 Marines allowed one of the Marine Corps’ premier Marine Aerial Refueler Transport squadron to maintain unrivaled operational tempo. Their exceptional performance reﬂected great credit upon themselves and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. 30 Henry Wildfang Award Lockheed MartinEstablished in honor of Major Henry Wildfang, who served with distinction and heroism as a transport pilot, for most outstanding aerial refueler transport squadron in Marine aviation.HENRY WILDFANG AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron of the YearHMH-464MAG-29, 2D MAWFor extraordinary achievement and superior performance while conducting worldwide distributed heavy-lift assault support operations from 1 January to 31 December 2019. The “Condors” of HMH-464 exceptionally executed the full spectrum of assault support operations for Marine, joint, and special operations forces. The squadron continually demonstrated the capabilities of the CH-53E as a critical asset to the Marine Air-Ground Task Force, emphasizing Command and Control and long-range tactics through various deployments, detachments, and exercises. The Condors conducted “tri-site” operations for multiple months, all while maintaining T-1 level combat readiness and hitting every calendar year monthly ﬂight hour goal. The Condors remained boresight focused on combat readiness, and through an unwavering dedication to the assault support mission, the Condors ﬂew 3,512 ﬂight hours while transporting 3,556 passengers and 574,940 pounds of cargo. Through their professionalism, commitment to supporting the infantry, and unprecedented achievements, the Condors reﬂected credit upon themselves and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and Unites States Naval Service.32 Keith B. McCutcheon Award SikorskyEstablished in honor of General Keith B. McCutcheon, a pioneer helicopter pilot and a visionary in the development of Marine Corps aviation doctrine, for the most outstanding heavy helicopter squadron in Marine aviation.KEITH B. MCCUTCHEON AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron of the YearVMM-364MAG-39, 3D MAWFor meritorious service, professional achievement, and superior performance from 1 January to 31 December 2019. The “Purple Foxes” of VMM-364 demonstrated their dominance across all combat operational domains: blending tactics, Risk Management, and gung-ho warﬁghting esprit de corps. The Purple Foxes ﬂew more hours than any MV-22B squadron, becoming the ﬁrst Osprey squadron to simultaneously ﬁght in three countries from two continents, support a National Mission Joint Task Force as a conventional Tiltrotor unit, reinforce an U.S. Embassy, and provide the ﬁrst direct action mission for a combined United States and Iraqi Special Forces raid, contributing to Coalition Forces’ ability to close with and destroy Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. Marines of VMM-364 managed risk across a spectrum of desert and littoral combat operations while executing 3,153 ﬂight hours transporting 5,423 passengers and 709,571 pounds of cargo with a 100 percent mission success rate. Through their professionalism and total devotion to duty, the members of VMM-364 upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.Fred McCorkle Award 35Bell-BoeingEstablished in honor of Lieutenant General Fred McCorkle, whose leadership and dedication contributed to the success of the V-22 program, for the most outstanding tiltrotor squadron in Marine aviation.FRED MCCORKLE AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron of the YearHMLA-169MAG-39, 3D MAWFor outstanding contributions in aircraft readiness and support from 1 January to 31 December 2019. The “Vipers” of HMLA-169 executed an aggressive pre-deployment workup consisting of two detachments for training, multiple training exercises, and the successful deployment of two detachments in support of the 31st MEU and Unit Deployment Program (UDP). The squadron exhibited tactical expertise, while maintaining combat readiness, ﬂying a total of 5,105 hours and 3,497 sorties. The Maintenance Department set the standard for readiness by increasing the monthly Ready Basic Aircraft percentage on UDP by over 30% and handing over a ﬂeet of 100% mission-capable aircraft by deployment’s end. The Vipers maintained their reputation by consistently being on target and professional in their dedication to mission accomplishment, with goals for operational readiness, problem solving, and integration. Through their dedication to duty and distinctive operational accomplishments, the Vipers of HMLA-169 reﬂected great credit upon themselves and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.36 John P. Giguere Award BellEstablished in honor of Captain John P. Giguere, killed in action during a pilot rescue mission in Grenada, for the most outstanding light attack helicopter squadron.JOHN P. GIGUERE AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron of the YearMALS-36MAG-36, 1st MAWFor superior performance in Aviation Logistics Support for MAG-36, 1st MAW, 31st MEU from 1 January to 31 December 2019. Through superior inventory management of 27,000 line items, receipts of over 22,000 high priority demands, and processing of 42,000 maintenance action requests, Group ﬂight hours increased from 6,444 hours to 7,375 hours, which greatly contributing to pilot and aircrew combat proﬁciency and effectiveness. To extend operational reach and endurance, MALS-36 provided 30 augments, 12 supply pack-ups and 13 tons of ordnance in support of six Theater Security Cooperation exercises and six unit level trainings, enabling the execution of 377 sorties totaling 696 ﬂight hours, which facilitated interoperability and capability integration with 4 partner nations. The Maintenance Department achieved a score of 94% during the Commander Naval Air Forces Maintenance Inspection, far surpassing the ﬂeet average of 84%. The Marines and sailors of MALS-36’s achievements reﬂected credit upon themselves and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. Donald E. Davis Award 37CAEEstablished in honor of Colonel Donald E. Davis, who designed the Marine aviation logistics support program, for the highest degree of leadership, logistic expertise, innovation, and superior accomplishments in support of Marine aviation.DONALD E. DAVIS AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Wing Support Squadron of the YearMWSS-371MWSG-37, 3D MAWFor meritorious service to MWSG-37, 3D MAW, from 1 January to 31 December 2019. During this period, the MWSS-371 “Sandsharks” distinguished themselves as an exceptional unit through an unrelenting dedication to tactical proﬁciency, operational readiness, and effective Aviation Ground Support (AGS), consistently providing outstanding contributions to Marine Corps aviation throughout the year. The Sandsharks successfully enabled aviation combat power projection in support of Marine Corps and Naval plans during three service level exercises, two detachments, and one squadron level exercise. Through Exercise Paciﬁc Blitz 19 and Arctic Expeditionary Capabilities Exercise, the unit aided in the development of future warﬁghting concepts and technological advances, while also providing unwavering support to the Wing. The squadron supplied over 125,000 gallons of fuel to over 300 joint aircraft, and puriﬁed over 375,000 gallons of water while conducting steadfast AGS. Through these distinctive achievements, the Marines and sailors of MWSS-371 reﬂected great credit upon themselves and upheld the highest traditions of United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.38 James E. Hatch Award L3 HarrisEstablished in honor of Colonel James E. Hatch, designer of the Marine Wing Support Group and its subordinate squadrons, for the most outstanding wing support squadron who enhances support to aviation by furnishing transportation, engineering, and communication essentials.JAMES E. HATCH AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Marine Air Command/Control Unit of the YearMASS-2MACG-18, 1st MAWFor outstanding leadership and contributions to aviation Command and Control (C2) in the conduct of joint and coalition operations from 1 January to 31 December 2019. MASS-2 employed elements of the Direct Air Support Center (DASC) during 13 exercises and operations in both garrison and the ﬁeld. MASS-2 Marines paved the road for the success of 1st MAW in major theater-level exercises Cobra Gold 19, Balikatan 19, and Talisman Sabre 19. MASS-2 both led and participated in signiﬁcant endeavors affecting all domain force transformation efforts relative to the C2 warﬁghting function. MASS-2’s support of Marine Rotational Force Darwin and the 7th Air Force has helped shape the future of the DASC’s role in joint interoperability and organic aviation C2 system development and further strengthen relationships with key partners throughout the Paciﬁc Theater. Through their drive, passion, and commitment to excellence in changing the face of C2 operations, MASS-2 Marines reﬂected great credit upon themselves and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.Edward S. Fris Award 39Raytheon TechnologiesEstablished in honor of Major General Edward S. Fris, a pioneer in the development of Marine Corps aviation command and control, for the most outstanding air command and control squadron in Marine aviation.EDWARD S. FRIS AWARD SPONSORED BY

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Superior Performance in Marine AviationVMM-165MAG-16, 3D MAWFor meritorious service to VMM-165, MAG-16, 3D MAW, from 1 January to 31 December 2019. VMM-165 achieved record ﬂight hours and unmatched readiness in support of Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force—Crisis Response—Central Command 19.1, including a V-22 program single-month high of 533 ﬂight hours for combat operations. The squadron’s unprecedented deployed average mission-capable aircraft rate of 74 percent was equally impressive. Due to aircraft readiness, not a single OPERATION INHERENT RESOLVE combat mission was canceled. Additionally, the squadron developed and proposed a risk-mitigation policy change regarding assault support currency that was adopted by Marine Corps Forces Central Command for all rotary-wing aircraft throughout the theatre. The unwavering support to Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron 30 enabled the Navy’s ﬁrst CMV-22 squadron to remain on track for the type’s ﬁrst deployment. The professionalism and steadfast devotion to duty of VMM-165’s Marines and sailors reﬂected credit upon themselves and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.40 Commandant’s Aviation Trophy Pratt & WhitneyEstablished to recognize superior performance and accomplishment of all assigned tasks by a Marine squadron.COMMANDANT’S AVIATION TROPHY SPONSORED BY

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42 MCAA Journal www.ymcaa.org1962 to 2019Past Aviation AwardeesALFRED A. CUNNINGHAM AWARD 2019 Capt George W. Carpenter2018 Capt Daniel J. Bono2017 Capt Hugh E. Anderson2016 LtCol Steve E. Gillette2015 Capt Jason R. Caster2014 Capt Jason T. Stephenson2013 Maj Robert J. Weingart2012 Maj John E. Grunke2011 Capt Gregory J. Youngberg2010 Capt Henry J. Hortenstine2009 Maj Scott W. Wadle2008 Capt William G. Heiken2007 Maj C. W. Hasle2006 Maj Ricardo Martinez2005 Capt G. J. Pawson2004 Capt Matthew C. Shortal2003 Capt Scott D. Schoeman2002 Capt J.M. Holtermann2001 LtCol Steven W. Busby2000 LtCol Andrew W. O’Donnell Jr.1999 Maj Michael L. Lawrence1998 Captain Kevin J. Wolfe1997 Maj John Robert Parker1996 Capt Robert J. Charette Jr.1995 LtCol Wallace G. Duncan Jr.1994 LtCol Martin D. Peatross1993 Capt Mark A. Dungan1992 LtCol Daniel A. Driscoll Jr.1991 LtCol Michael M. Kurth1990 LtCol John G. Castellaw1989 LtCol Robert J. Garner1988 LtCol Larry D. Outlaw1987 LtCol Stephen D. Haley1986 Maj Ivan M. Behel1985 Capt Michael C. Albo1984 Col Laurence R. Medlin1983 LtCol William G. Barnes Jr.1982 Maj Bruce B. Knutson Jr.1981 LtCol Alfred J. Allega1980 Maj T. David Seder1979 Maj Mike D. Ryan1978 Col Walter R. Ledbetter1977 Col Harvey D. Bradshaw1976 Maj R. H. Brinkley1975 LtCol James L. Bolton1974 LtCol Michael P. Sullivan1973 Maj Howard L. DeCastro1972 Maj Lee T. Lasseter1971 Maj David G. Vest1970 Capt John J. Barrett1969 LtCol Paul W. Niesen1968 Maj David L. Althoff1967 Maj Vincent J. Guinee Jr.1966 LtCol Charles H. Ludden1965 Capt Raymond R. Powell1964 LtCol Thomas J. Ross1963 Col Michael R. Yunck1962 LtCol John H. Glenn Jr.ROBERT GUY ROBINSON AWARD2019 Capt Daniel L. Jewett2018 Capt Philip R. Schmitz2017 Capt Christopher A. Smith2016 Maj Jason P. Whittaker2015 Capt Anthony J. Cesaro2014 Capt Bradley N. Buick2013 Maj Matthew A. Brown2012 Capt David C. Dunsworth2011Maj Marc E. Blankenbicker2010 Capt John Cimina2009 Capt Brian A. Adams2008 Maj Anthony Baggs2007 Maj H.W. Qualkinbush2006 Capt J. L. Purdon2005 Capt M. D. Williams2004 Capt Charles B. Dockery2003 Maj Joseph E. Maybach2002 Maj J.A. Craft2001 Maj John H. Pylant2000 Maj Chris Pappas, III1999 Maj David A. DeMorat1998 Capt John P. Farnam1997 Capt Francisco M. Ball1996 Maj Justin B. Orabona1995 LtCol Jeffrey A. White1994 Maj Barry B. Bizzell1993 LtCol Terry G. Robling1992 Maj Henry J. Krauss1991 Maj Richard J. Findlay1990 Maj John A. Blum1989 Capt Mark F. McKeon1988 Maj Terry L. Breithaupt1987 Maj Michael I. Mott1986 LtCol Joseph C. Garbrous1985 LtCol Richard C. Kindsfater1984 LtCol James E. French1983 Maj Wayne A. Stanley1982 Maj David Vanesselstyn1981 Maj George P. Sweeney III1980 Capt Gary P. Newell1979 Maj Richard G. Hoopes1978 Maj Leonard R. Fuchs Jr.1977 LtCol Gerland C. Lindgren1976 Maj O. E. Hay1975 CWO3 Don E. Diederich1974 Maj William T. Bridgham Jr.1973 CWO-3 John C. Bardon1972 Capt William D. Carr Jr.1971 Capt John D. CummingsEARLE HATTAWAY AWARD2019 Capt Zachary V. Smith2018 Capt Kristina F. Warren2017 Capt Kevin F. Champaigne2016 Maj Michael J. Malone2015 Capt Devin D. Johnson2014 Capt Narciso Corral2013 CWO-2 Theodore B. Hensley2012 CWO-2 Charles T. Dine2011 CWO-2 Ricky J. Savage2010 CWO-2 Nathan Young2009 Capt Matthew J. Neely2008 Capt Jonathan Goins2007 Capt A. A. Angell2006 Capt L. R. Domitrovits2005 Capt R. A. Dill2004 CWO3 Steven P. Hulse2003 Maj Kris S. Karnetsky2002 Maj W. E. Hidle2001 Maj John F. Sisson2000 Maj Brent E. Meeker1999 Maj Roosevelt G. Lafontant1998 Maj Paul F. Callan1997 Maj Jerald D. Holm1996 CW0-2 Robert A. Murphy1995 Maj Byron F. Stebbins1994 Maj Lloyd L. Denn1993 Maj Paul F. Lease1992 Capt Kevin T. McCutcheon1991 Maj Bonnie J. Robison1990 Maj Steve S. Demers1989 LtCol John E. Torsak1988 Col Donald E. Davis1987 Maj Richard Christiansen1986 Capt Ernie L. Ellis1985 Capt Michael J. Cooper1984 Capt Stephen C. Lambeth1983 CWO-3 Leroy Sanderson1982 Capt Robert E. Fugate1981 Capt Donald Schwartz Jr.1980 1stLt Mark C. Hunt1979 Maj Donald B. Frost1978 Maj Frederick M. Stitcher1977 1stLt Herbert Donahue Jr.1976 Capt D. Ratcliffe1975 Capt Courtney B. Payne1974 Capt Vernon L. Clark1973 Capt Louis E. Sergeant Jr.1972 LtCol Earle HattawayROBERT F. GIBSON AWARD2019 Maj Chad E. Troyer2018 Capt Steven E. Nye2017 Capt Michael R. Jacobellis2016 Maj Jason A. Lambert2015 Capt Benjamin J. Kiley2014 Maj Jason A. Sharp2013 Maj Kenneth W. Phelps III2012 Capt Christopher J. Forsythe2011 Maj Koichi Takagi2010 Capt Michael J. Pruden2009 Capt Christopher M. Nelson2008 Capt Amanda Donnelly2007 1stLt Andrea L. Goeman2006 Capt D. A. Funkhouser2005 Capt K. M. Karcher2004 Maj Lorna M. Mahlock2003 Maj Christopher S. Richie2002 Maj K. A. Knarr2001 CWO James M. Graham II2000 Capt Matthew Culbertson1999 Major John C. Reimer1998 Major Jeffery S. Carusone1997 Capt Blaise R. Strandquist1996 Capt Michael C. Bogna1995 Capt Rodney D. Burnett1994 Maj William L. Clemente1993 Capt Robert S. Crosetto1992 Capt Paul D. McGraw1991 Capt Mark R. Cyr1990 Capt Mark R. Cyr1989 Capt Dale L. Kratzer1988 Capt Chad W. Hocking1987 Capt Francis W. Chesney1986 Capt Kelvin K. Womack1985 Capt Randolph L. Hill1984 Maj William L. Groves1983 Capt Richard J. Martin Jr.1982 Maj Jimmie T. Turner1981 Maj Timothy J. Balch1980 MSgt Bobbie D. Hodges1979 1stLt Timoth J. Kirk1978 Capt William W. Smith1977 Capt Paul F. Cibuzar1976 GySgt W. E. Grogan1975 Maj Mitchell Steinberg1974 Maj James W. Bierman1973 CW0-4 Robert D. Favreau1972 1stSgt Frederico VercelesSILVER HAWK AWARD2019 LtGen Robert F. Hedelund2018 Gen Glenn M. Walters2017 Gen Glenn M. Walters2016 LtGen Robert E. Schmidle Jr.2015 LtGen Kenneth J. Glueck2014 Gen James F. Amos2013 Gen James F. Amos2012 Gen James F. Amos2011 Gen James F. Amos2010 Gen James F. Amos2009 Gen James F. Amos2008 Gen James F. Amos2007 LtGen Jack W. Bergman2006 LtGen Jack W. Bergman2005 Gen William L. Nyland2004 Gen William L. Nyland2003 Gen William L. Nyland2002 LtGen Michael P. DeLong2001 LtGen Frederick McCorkle2000 MajGen Thomas A. Braaten1999 Gen Terry Dake1998 LtGen Terry Dake1997 LtGen Jefferson Davis Howell Jr.1996 General Richard D. Hearney1995 LtGen Harold W. Blot1994 MajGen Richard L. Phillips1993 MajGen Richard L. Phillips andMajGen Clyde L. Vermilya1992 Gen John R. Dailey1991 LtGen Royal N. Moore and MajGen Michael P. Sullivan1990 MajGen Michael P. Sullivan1989 Gen Joseph J. Went and

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2020 Symposium 43 LtGen John I. Hudson1988 LtGen John I. Hudson1987 LtGen Frank E. Petersen Jr.1986 LtGen Frank E. Petersen Jr.1985 MajGen Frank E. Petersen Jr.1984 MajGen Leo J. LeBlanc Jr.1983 MajGen Leo J. LeBlanc Jr.1982 MajGen Leo J. LeBlanc Jr.1981 LtGen William J. White1980 LtGen Andrew W. O’Donnell1979 LtGen Thomas H. Miller1978 CWO-4 Henry Wildfang and MajGen Frank Lang1977 CWO-4 Henry Wildfang1976 CWO-4 Henry Wildfang1975 CWO-4 Henry Wildfang1974 MajGen Arthur H. Adams1973 MajGen Arthur H. Adams1972 MajGen Norman J. AndersonFRANK E. PETERSEN, JR AWARD2019 1stLt Emilee N. Johnson2018 1stLt Daniel J. Lengyel2017 1stLt Samantha A. Sirois2016 1stLt Curtis C. King2015 1stLt Kyle K. McLeodDANNY L. RADISH AWARD2019 Sgt Derek A. Levi2018 SSgt Gilbert B. Hopper2017 Sgt Cameron A. Koerner2016 Sgt Ryan A. Hetu2015 Sgt Nathaniel T. Lubinus2014 GySgt James E. Garner2013 Cpl Benjamin L. Hebert2012 Sergeant James R. Reyes2011 SSgt Bart C. Davis2010 Sgt Frank Conrad2009 SSgt Bryan E. Campbell2008 Sgt Matthew R. Crooks2007 Sgt T. D. Martinez2006 Cpl N. A. Robinson2005 GySgt P. O. Burgess2004 SSgt Wade M. Davis2003 Sgt Bryan K. Cox2002 SSgt A. D. Ritacco2001 Sgt Joshua C. Eveslage2000 Sgt Robert J. Ostrander1999 Sgt Bruce W. Keller1998 Sgt Dennis L. Pennington1997 SSgt Sean M. Sterling1996 Sgt Scott A. Pﬁster1995 Sgt Kenneth W. JourdanFIXED-WING1994 MGySgt Ehore N. Dicandiatt1993 GySgt Jerry L. Lewis1992 MSgt Cary M. Depew1991 MSgt Bruce A. Taylor1990 Sgt Michael V. Davis1989 Sgt Scott S. Steele1988 MSgt James R. Noe1987 SSgt David Rodriguez1986 CWO-3 Edward J. Delehant1985 CWO-3 Terry D. Ruhter1984 CWO-3 Timmy A. Bahr1983 GySgt Cary M. Depew1982 CWO-2 James R. Kikta1981 SSgt Daniel A. Weier1980 GySgt Earl E. Lipford1979 MGySgt Edward T. Hunt Jr.1978 CWO-2 Terry D. Ruhter1977 Sgt David R. Gorton1976 GySgt S. D. Alvarez1975 MSgt Thomas J. Guthrie, Jr.1974 GySgt Donald Schwartz Jr.1973 GySgt Edward C. Rinehart1972 SSgt Richard F. SmithHELICOPTER1994 SSgt Joseph Womack1993 Cpl James H. Brown1992 Sgt Leonard R. Domitrovitis1991 Sgt Richard N. Gravel1990 Sgt Thomas E. Newman1989 Sgt David A. Brown1988 Sgt James E. Bowling, II1987 Sgt Micharel R. Bishop Jr.1986 Sgt Michael H. Schmitt1985 SSgt David H. Dielman1984 GySgt Kelly M. Neidigh1983 Cpl Gregory S. Floyd1982 Sgt Bobby G. Clement Jr.1981 Sgt Kenneth R. Boone1980 SSgt Dewey L. Johnson1979 Sgt Ralph Rainey1978 SSgt G.T. Chavarria1977 SSgt Tery R. Armstrong1976 Cpl G. E. Estepp1975 Sgt Joseph F. Kerce1974 Sgt Robert D. Brooking1973 SSgt James T. Connacher1972 Cpl Lester E. Cox Jr.WILLIE D. SPROULE AWARD2019 SSgt Nicholas J. Harrel2018 GySgt Robert M. Surozenski2017 Sgt Keanu B. Kinney2016 GySgt Ronald L. Strzalkowski2015 GySgt Mark A. Eastmead2014 Sgt Kevin M. Adcock2013 Cpl Sean A. Radcliff2012 SSgt Chad D, Brown2011 Sgt Justin H. Mauldin2010 GySgt Donald Wilson2009 Sgt Esteban Amezquitazamora2008 Cpl Brandyn C. Gutche2007 Sgt R. P. Roberthon2006 SSgt Eric Williams2005 SSgt B. M. Rioux2004 GySgt Jersey J. Bray2003 SSgt Troy A. Bissen2002 Sgt J. D. Clement2001 Cpl Michael L. Youngblood2000 SSgt Ruben Garibay, Jr.1999 GySgt Brian E. Trimble1998 SSgt Francis Masterson III1997 GySgt Oscar G. Adley1996 Sgt Robert A. Petersen1995 SSgt Paul D. Kogut1994 Cpl Willie J. Timms Jr.1993 Sgt Steven M. Dalrymple1992 Sgt Rodney W. Troup1991 Cpl Dale M. Harp1990 Cpl Thomas E. Covey1989 Sgt Edwin Jimenez1988 Sgt Steven R. Davis1987 Sgt Margie E. Traub1986 Cpl Joseph D. Gamble1985 SSgt Lou Ann Rickley1984 Sgt Jesus L. Zarate1983 Sgt David L. Washa1982 Sgt Bernard A. Leever1981 Sgt Valerio D. Capote1980 Sgt Neil V. McCarty1979 Cpl Jose R. Guzman1978 Sgt David B. Shrader1977 Sgt Stephen P. Givens1976 Cpl M. A. Bogaczyk1975 Sgt Stephen H. Foreman1974 Sgt Rickey A. Hess1973 Sgt Ronald L. Harvin1972 Sgt Gary GriswoldKENNETH W. SOUTHCOMB AWARD2019 MSgt Edgard J. Norori2018 MSgt Jeffrey J. Swindell2017 MSgt Willie J. Milline2016 MSgt Olga J. McCray2015 Sgt Teresa Morman2014 MSgt Rodolfo Flores Jr.2013 Cpl Michael L. Denney2012 MSgt Erika E. Johnson2011 Sgt Catalina Delgado2010 MSgt Scott Kieweg2009 MSgt Frank C. Orduno2008 Sergeant Javier Lopeztapia2007 SSgt A. M. Hayes2006 GySgt T. L. Adkins2005 GySgt R. W. Rowe2004 MSgt Anthony J. Jackson2003 GySgt David Parulis2002 GySgt W. B. Downing2001 GySgt James M. Pasko2000 SSgt Alan J. Papke1999 GySgt Mark Obey1998 GySgt Kenneth W. Oisten1997 SSgt Michael L. Shideler1996 SSgt Michael S. MartinPAUL G. VESS AWARD2019 Cpl Kyle M. LeClair,2018 GySgt Ryan J. Straub2017 SSgt Christopher E. Norman2016 SSgt Juan Ogomuro2015 GySgt Brian D. Hoover2014 Sgt Eric J. Smith2013 Cpl Mario A. Cabrera2012 Sgt Christopher A. Green2011 Sgt Ryan J. Straub2010 Sgt Steve Bougnadeth2009 SSgt Thomas M. McNelis2008 Sgt Michelle Carter2007 SSgt C. C. Wilson2006 GySgt G. C. Krenek2005 GySgt J. H. Kreitzer2004 Sgt Henry L. Sapp2003 GySgt Duwayne W. Darby2002 GySgt A. L. Garrant2001 GySgt Arlington A. Finch2000 Sgt Brandy R. Vaughn1999 SSgt James F. Lewellyn1998 SSgt Dale W. Benton1997 Sgt Robert Vanravenswaay1996 SSgt Adam R. Chitty1995 GySgt James T. Baker1994 SSgt Andrew McLaughlin1993 Cpl Kurt E. Peterson1992 GySgt Ronald G. Hayward1991 SSgt Charles W. Anderson1990 SSgt Walter B. Jarek1989 Cpl Lansden R. Good III1988 Cpl James H. Parish Jr.1987 GySgt Ronald H. Cowles1986 SSgt Karl E. Duggin1985 GySgt Donald L. Erickson1984 GySgt Edward G. Robinson1983 SSgt James C. Addington1982 Sgt Dennis K. Ellis1981 GySgt James O. Stephens1980 SSgt John A. Chemsak1979 GySgt Samuel E. Cooper1978 GySgt Barry B. Mertz1977 GySgt Raymond ClapsadleGAINES B. GILBERT AWARD2019 Sgt Christopher J. Borghese2018 Sgt Jordan A. Rubio2017 Sgt Shane M. Tietje2016 Sgt Tyler J. Bluder2015 SSgt Francisco A. Valdez2014 Sgt Jason T. Connolly2013 GSgt Juan G. Jimenez Jr.2012 Sgt Blake A. Cooper2011 Sgt Nicholas W. Passage2010 Sgt Cleavland Smith2009 GySgt Sean C. Kuietauskas2008 Sgt Brian D. Kolterman2007 Sgt J. D. Quigley2006 Sgt J. H. Barr2005 Sgt B. A. Roczicka2004 SSgt Carl E. Moser2003 Sgt Zachary F. Ritter2002 Sgt B.D. Auten2001 SSgt Gary L. Shopper2000 SSgt Michael T. Kuzniar1999 Sgt Sally D. Morris1998 Sgt Anthony J. Ramos1997 SSgt Mark A. Mitchell1996 Sgt Porﬁrio A. Velasquez-Torres1995 SSgt Gary L. Glisan1994 SSgt Lisa A. Borbe1993 SSgt John A. GraboskiKENNETH A. INNIS AWARD2019 Cpl Colton R. Vaughan2018 GySgt Anthony R. Maggard2017 MSgt Lance A. Gruben2016 WO Michael L. Ott2015 MSgt Herbert A. Smith2014 SSgt Adele Grullon-Knupp2013 GSgt Justin E. Hackworth2012 GySgt Jeffrey P. Riley2011 Sgt Xavier W. Wethington2010 SSgt Gene A. Gibbs2009 MSgt Gary G. Gumienny2008 GySgt Rachel L. Eltz2007 SSgt K. J. Williams2006 Sgt N. A. Norville2005 GySgt J. A. Dobbins2004 GySgt Russell T. Sinclair2003 SSgt Charles C. Robinett2002 GySgt R. G. Eskam2001 Sgt Michael Soto2000 GySgt Vernon K. Abshire1999 Sgt Victor B. Watts1998 SSgt Kenneth C. Reynolds1997 GySgt Carol A. Franssen1996 Sgt Andrew C. Johnson1995 SSgt Dean L. Jones1994 MGySgt Donald L. Kopff1993 GySgt Samuel R. Schmidt1992 GySgt Timothy P. Bougher1991 SSgt Brent W. Pforthmiller1990 Cpl Derek R. Andersen1989 Sgt Timothy J. Didas1988 Sgt Brian E. DundonJACK W. DEMMOND AWARD2019 SSgt Marcus Penate2018 GySgt Jonathon E. Thornton2017 Sgt Jordan M. Mercado2016 MSgt Christopher D. Collins2015 Sgt Robert B. Plumb

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44 MCAA Journal www.ymcaa.org2014 SSgt Victor Carmona Jr.2013 SSgt Jose A. Zazueta2012 Sgt Joy E. Spears2011 GySgt Tracy Wilson2010 MSgt Steven Lemke2009 SSgt Robert Leatherman2008 SSgt Blair R. Clark2007 SSgt B. A. DeBusk2006 SSgt S. L. Leonard2005 SSgt K. D. Voss2004 SSgt Hector M. De La Pena2003 SSgt Elibert S. Ginez2002 Sgt C. B. Peoples2001 SSgt Michael S. Hounshell2000 GySgt Lisa C. Beeksma1999 Sgt Ronald R. Phillips1998 Sgt Paul F. Smith1997 Sgt Ralph A. VanAssche1996 SSgt Timothy King1995 Sgt Mark L. UngerJAMES E. NICHOLSON AWARD2019 GySgt Rodger K. Bond2018 SSgt Jamie L. Murray2017 Sgt Brandon D. Young2016 SSgt Jimi A. Banda2015 Sgt Jason Alvarez2014 Sgt Zachary A. Kirk2013 Sgt Brett S. Johnson2012 Sgt Cory J. Sowell2011 Sgt Joshua D. Obermier2010 Sgt Ryan Fuss2009 Sgt Thomas M. Reed2008 GySgt Arthur W. Cochran2007 GySgt Brian J. O’Toole2006 Sgt E. J. Amezquitazamora2005 GySgt Anthony Garcia2004 GySgt Marvin M. Magcale2003 GySgt Vincent F. Young2002 GySgt R. J. Watson2001 SSgt Daniel W. Annunziata2000 SSgt Trisha A. Schmidt1999 MGySgt Jeffery A. Davis1998 SSgt Rosa A. Clarke1997 Sgt Sarah L. Hart1996 Sgt Daniel C. Gutierrez1995 GySgt Clayton T. Kribs1994 GySgt Timothy P. Hinger1993 SSgt Michael A. Hoffman1992 SSgt Robert G. Meserve1991 GySgt William R. Shearer1990 MGySgt John E. Merchant1989 MGySgt Robert D. Targett1988 GySgt George C. Johnson1987 MSgt Tommy Lane Jr.1986 MSgt William R. Grifﬁth1985 MSgt Daniel Smith III1984 MSgt James W. Varney1983 Sgt John A. Lopresti1982 MSgt Robert MacLaughlin1981 GySgt John K. Jones1980 MSgt Donald J. Turk1979 MSgt Hershal A. Buchann1978 MSgt Edward D. Boyd1977 Sgt David L. FordMICHAEL A. HOUGH AWARD 2019 GySgt Nathan J. Marple2018 Maj Robert F. Guyette2017 LtCol Brian J. Taylor2016 SSgt Scott A Colagrossi, II2015 LtCol Vasilios E. Pappas2014 Maj Josue M. Diaz2013 GSgt Johnny L. Kilgore2012 LtCol Jason R. Maddocks2011 LtCol Matthew G. Kelly2010 LtCol Eldon E. Metzger2009 LtCol Eric J. Ropella2008 GySgt Benjamin Gonzalez2007 LtCol J. E. RectorJAMES MAGUIRE AWARD2019 GySgt Michael L. Felton2018 Capt Joshua P. Brooks2017 GySgt Clinton J. DuClos2016 Cpl Steven F. Emond2015 SSgt Joseph Napolitano2014 Cpl Gavin L. Christian2013 Cpl Clayton J. Rice2012 VMR Belle Chase2011 GySgt Garry D. Sandy2010 Cpl William H. Rogers Jr.2009 Capt John C. Reeves2008 Capt Luke T. Watson2007 LtCol R. L. Bomhold2006 LtCol J. E. Munroe2005 MWSG-372004 LtCol Kevin L. Gross2003 VMU-12002 Sgt D. R. Pash2001 Maj Douglas S. Kurth2000 Maj Richard Coleman Jr.1999 CWO Crane P. Dauksys1998 1stLt Brian J. Shortsleeve1997 MAWTS-11996 LtCol Paul Pisano1995 MAWTS-11994 1stLt Eric L. Rine1993 Maj Christabol H. Mendez1992 Capt George B. Brown1991 MGySgt Ronald A. Perez1990 MSgt Cecil D. Walden1989 GySgt Mallie F. Elkins Jr.1988 MSgt Michael S. Mullen1987 Capt Raymond C. Ferrara1986 Maj Joseph E. Noble1985 MSgt Timothy J. Brinton1984 Maj Howard B. Eddins III1983 Capt Mark C. Hunt1982 Cdr Manley Carter, USNR1981 Col James D. JahnROBERT M. HANSON AWARD2019 VMFA-115, MAG-312018 VMFA(AW)-2422017 VMFA(AW)-5332016 VMFA-1212015 VMFA-3142014 VMFA-3122013 VMFA-2512012 VMFA(AW)-5332011 VMFA-2322010 VMFA-1122009 VMFA-1222008 VMFA-2322007 VMFA(AW)-2422006 VMFA(AW)-3322005 VMFA(AW)-2422004 VMFA-3122003 VMFA-3232002 VMFA-2512001 VMFA(AW)-1212000 VMFA(AW)-3321999 VMFA-3121998 VMFA-1221997 VMFA-3121996 VMFA-2321995 VMFA(AW)-3321994 VMFA-3121993 VMFA-3121992 VMFA(AW)-2421991 VMFA-2351990 VMFA-1151989 VMFA-4511988 VMFA-1151987 VMFA-1151986 VMFA-3231985 VMFA-2121984 VMFA-1121983 VMAT-1011982 VMFA-1151981 VMFA-2351980 VMFA-3231979 VMFA-3331978 VMFA-5311977 VMFA-1121976 VMFA-3231975 VMFA-3231974 VMFA-2321973 VMFA-3331972 VMFA-1151971 VMFA-1151970 VMFA-2121969 VMFA-2511968 VMFA-314LAWSON H. M. SANDERSON AWARD2019 VMA-2232018 VMA-2312017 VMA-2232016 VMA-223 2015 VMA-2112014 VMA-3112013 VMA-2112012 VMA-2232011 VMA-2312010 VMA-2142009 VMA-3112008 VMA-2312007 VMA-2112006 VMA-2112005 VMA-5422004 VMA-5132003 VMA-5422002 VMA-2232001 VMA-3112000 VMA-2231999 VMA-2231998 VMA-2111997 VMA-2141996 VMA-2111995 VMA-2111994 VMFA (AW)-5331993 VMFA (AW)-2421992 VMA-2311991 VMA-3111990 VMA-3311989 VMA(AW)-2241988 VMA-3111987 VMA-2141986 VMA (AW)-2421985 VMA(AW)-3321984 VMA-2111983 No Award Given1982 VMA-2141981 VMA(AW)-5331980 VMA(AW)-5331979 VMA(AW)-121HENRY WILDFANG AWARD2019 VMGR-1522018 VMGR-3522017 VMGR-3522016 VMGR-3522015 VMGR-2522014 VMGR-3522013 VMGR-2342012 VMGR-2522011 VMGR-3522010 VMGR-3522009 VMGR-1522008 VMGR-3522007 VMGR-2522006 VMGR-1522005 VMGR-2522004 VMGR-3522003 VMGR-2342002 VMGR-2342001 VMGR-1522000 VMGR-3521999 VMGR-2521998 VMGR-2341997 VMGR-2521996 VMGR-1521995 VMGR-2521994 VMGR-1521993 VMGR-352ROYAL N. MOORE AWARD2019 VMAQ-22018 VMAQ-32017 VMAQ-42016 VMAQ-22015 VMAQ-32014 VMAQ-32013 VMAQ-12012 VMAQ-42011 VMAQ-22010 VMAQ-12009 VMAQ-42008 VMAQ-12007 VMAQ-32006 VMAQ-12005 VMAQ-22004 VMAQ-12003 VMAQ-12002 VMAQ-12001 VMAQ-32000 VMAQ-21999 VMAQ-41998 VMAQ-11997 VMAQ-21996 VMAQ-11995 VMAQ-4KEITH B. MCCUTCHEON AWARD2019 HMH-3662018 HMH-4632017 HMH-7722016 HMH-464 2015 HMH-3662014 HMH-4612013 HMH-3612012 HMH-4612011 HMH-4662010 HMH-4632009 HMH-4642008 HMH-3622007 HMH-4652006 HMH-4662005 HMH-7692004 HMH-465

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2020 Symposium 45 2003 HMH-4622002 HMH-4652001 HMH-4612000 HMH-4641999 HMH-4661998 HMH-4621997 HMH-3611996 HMH-4621995 HMH-3611994 HMM-2681993 HMM-1641992 HMM-2651991 HMLA-3691990 HMM-1631989 HMM-2611988 HMLA-1691987 HMM-2611986 HMLA-2691985 HMM-1631984 HMM-261EDWARD C. DYER AWARD2015 HMM-3642014 HMM-3642013 HMM-2682012 HMM-2622011 HMM-1652010 HMM-2682009 HMM-1612008 HMM-2612007 HMM-2622006 HMM-2662005 HMM-2682004 HMM-1612003 HMM-1612002 HMM-1632001 HMM-1612000 HMM-2651999 HMM-2661998 HMM-2641997 HMM-3651996 HMM-2631995 HMM-365JOHN I. HUDSON AWARD 2019 VMU-12018 VMU-32017 VMU-22016 VMU-2FRED MCCORKLE AWARD2019 VMM-363, MAG-242018 VMM-1612017 VMM-264 (Rein)2016 VMM-365 2015 VMM-3632014 VMM-2652013 VMM-3652012 VMM-2662011 VMM-3652010 VMM-2612009 VMM-2662008 VMM-263JOHN P. GIGUERE AWARD2019 HMLA-3672018 HMLA-1692017 HMLA-2672016 HMLA-269 2015 HMLA-3692014 HMLA-1692013 HMLA-2692012 HMLA-2672011 HMLA-3672010 HMLA-2692009 HMLA-3672008 HMLA-7732007 HMLA-1692006 HMLA-1672005 HMLA-7732004 HMLA-3692003 HMLA-2672002 HMLA-1692001 HMLA-2692000 HMLA-1671999 HMLA-2691998 HMLA-3691997 HMLA-1691996 HMLA-3691995 HMLA-269DONALD E. DAVIS AWARD2019 MALS-262018 MALS-122017 MALS-392016 MALS-13 2015 MALS-122014 MALS-362013 MALS-122012 MALS-362011 MALS-162010 MALS-262009 MALS-112008 MALS-292007 MALS-11/162006 MALS-26 (REIN)2005 MALS-162004 MALS-112003 MALS-392002 MALS-312001 MALS-142000 MALS-131999 MALS-121998 MALS-361997 MALS-311996 MALS-361995 MALS-141994 MALS-361993 MALS-121992 MALS-361991 MALS-14JAMES E. HATCH AWARD2019 MWSS-2722018 MWSS-3722017 MWSS-1722016 MWSS-272 2015 MWSS-2742014 MWSS-3722013 MWSS-2732012 MWSS-3732011 MWSS-3742010 MWSS-3712009 MWSS-2732008 MWSS-1712007 MWSS-2732006 MWSS-3722005 MWSS-2732004 MWSS-3742003 MWSS-3732002 MWSS-1722001 MWSS-3712000 MWSS-2731999 MWSS-3711998 MWSS-2711997 MWSS-1721996 MWSS-2741995 MWSS-1721994 MWSS-1741993 MWSS-3731992 MWSS-2711991 MWSS-174EDWARD S. FRIS AWARD2019 MACS-22018 MACS-12017 MACS-42016 3D LAAD2015 MACG-38 (FWD)2014 MACG-28 (FWD)2013 VMU-22012 MACS-42011 MACS-22010 MTACS-282009 MTACS-382008 MACS-22007 1st Stinger Battery2006 VMU-12005 VMU-22004 MTACS-382003 MACS-22002 MACS-42001 MACS-242000 2d LAAD1999 MTACS-281998 MASS-11997 MACS-61996 MTACS-281995 MWCS-181994 MACS-41993 MATCS-38,1992 MASS-11991 2d LAAD1990 MASS-21989 MASS-21988 3d LAAD1987 MAGG-181986 MACS-21985 2d LAAMCMC AVIATION AWARD2019 VMFA-1212018 VMGR-1522017 VMX-12016 VMFA-2512015 VMM-2612014 VMGR-2522013 VMGR-1522012 VMU-32011 VMGR-1522010 VMU-22009 HMM-2652008 VMU-12007 HMH-3632006 HMM-1612005 MACS-12004 HMH-4642003 VMFA(AW)-1212002 HMT-3032001 VMGR-2342000 HMM-3651999 HMM-2651998 MWSG-371997 VMFA-2321996 VMFA-2511995 VMGR-2521994 SOES Cherry Point1993 VMGR-1521992 VMGR-1521991 HMM-2661990 VMFAT-1011989 VMFA-2511988 VMGR-3521987 HMH-4641986 VMAT-2031985 HML-2671984 H&MS-121983 VMFP-31982 HMA-3691981 VMGR-3521980 VMFA-5311979 VMGR-2521978 VMFA-2511977 VMA-2231976 VMAQ-21975 VMA(AW)-2241974 VMFA-1151973 HMH-4631972 VMA(AW)-2241971 HMM-2621970 VMFA-3141969 VMO-6PETE ROSS AWARD2019 HMLA-3692018 VMFA-3122017 VMM-262 (Rein)2016 VMFT-4012015 VMGR-3522014 HMLA-1692013 HMH-4632012 HMM-2622011 VMGR-4522010 HMLA-3692009 HMM-1612008 HMLA-3692007 HMLA-7752006 HMLA-3692005 VMA-2232004 HMLA-3692003 HMM-2612002 VMFA-2322001 HMH-7692000 VMFA-1121999 HMLA-7751998 HMH-7691997 HMLA-7731996 HMM-7641995 HMM-7641994 VMFA-1341993 VMFT-4011992 VMFA-1341991 VMFA-1341990 VMAQ-41989 VMAQ-41988 VMA-1421987 VMA-3221986 VMA-1421985 VMFA-1221984 VMFA-1121983 VMA-1241982 VMFA-3211981 VMA-1241980 VMFA-112

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46 MCAA Journal www.ymcaa.orgPreface: The A-6 Intruder,an Aircraft for its TimeBY COLONEL MIKE BURNS, USMC (RET)One of the many lessons learned from the Korean War was that the Navy needed a long-range strike aircraft. The Douglas A-1 Skyraider was a real workhorse, but could not operate in the hours of darkness or in all-weather conditions; it was also slow. A viable replacement was needed for future conﬂicts. The aviation industry was put to work, and out of the Navy requirements documents came the Grumman Aircraft Corporation’s A2F-1 / Grumman Model 128. Later re-designated the A-6A Intruder, it was accepted into the Navy Department on 19 April 1960. The A-6A included six derivatives during its history (the A-6B, A-6C, KA-6D, A-6E, EA-6A, and EA-6B); it certainly demonstrated the tactical value of a versatile all-weather weapons delivery system.An quick history lesson: French colonialism began in Vietnam in 1877 and begat Uncle Ho (Ho Chi Minh). Ho, in 1945, declared independence from France, just hours after the Japanese surrendered in World War II. Ironically, Ho used the U.S. Declaration of Independence as a model for his Proclamation of the Independence of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. France immediately strapped-on Uncle Ho and his Viet Minh forces. e First Indochina War did not end well for France, with General Vo Nguyen Giap showing France “the door” at a place in Northwest Vietnam called Dien Bien Phu in May of 1954.e 1954 Geneva Accords then divided Vietnam into the North and the South at the 17th Parallel, later known as the DMZ. An election was scheduled two years hence, but America, fearing this national election would lead to communist rule, ensured that it never took place.With the words, “hold my beer and watch this,” the United States then inserted itself right smack dab into the middle of this ill-fated play. President Dwight D. Eisenhower had put forth the Domino eory, that a communist victory in Vietnam would create a domino eect throughout Southeast Asia, and that it must be prevented at all costs.President John F. Kennedy (JFK) was also a believer in the Domino eory of countries falling to communism, and he wanted to ensure that Vietnam did not become another Bay of Pigs asco. Sadly, JFK was assassinated on 22 November 1963. ree weeks earlier, there had been another assassination, in a country half-way around the world called South Vietnam. President Ngo Dinh Diem and his brother were murdered by factions of the South Vietnamese government. And it had been done with the covert approval of the CIA. Diem had succeeded Emperor Bao Dai. Diem was succeeded by 12 dierent governments between 1963 and 1965. e quid pro quo for the United States was “South Vietnam, if you get rid of Diem, we

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2020 Symposium 47 will continue to support you”. How did that work out, you might ask?Lyndon B. Johnson became President, and by way of the Tonkin Gulf Resolution, we were “In It, but NOT To Win It.” As Secretary of Defense Robert Strange McNamara said to the aircrews aboard USS Oriskany in the summer of 1965, “Be prepared to endure unlimited losses in pursuit of limited goals.” With those cheery words, we were o to the races!e North Vietnamese on the other hand, were not in a limited war. ey were a tough and tenacious foe. e motto of the North Vietnamese soldier on his long trek down the Ho Chi Minh Trail through Laos was, “Born in the North, to die in the South.” We got into a war of attrition with the wrong guy, and then compounded things by ghting it the wrong way.ere were intermittent “bombing halts,” to see if Hanoi was ready to come to the peace-table. We were sent on missions, without ordnance, to count the numbers of trucks running south during these halts. We had to y past the British and Russian ships unloading war materials in Haiphong Harbor; shipping which supplied 2/3 of Hanoi’s needs. e other 1/3 came by way of the Northeast rail line out of China. We had to y past the Russian-manned GCI sites. We had to y past the North Vietnamese airelds with MIGs parked on them, their pilots trained by Russia and China. We had to y past the AAA sites mounted on the dykes throughout the country, because the dykes were also on the Do Not Bomb list.Preface: The A-6 Intruder,an Aircraft for its TimeBY COLONEL MIKE BURNS, USMC (RET)You could not bomb the SAM sites in the early days, unless red upon. ese rules of engagement were conducive to getting one killed in the skies over North Vietnam. e weekly “Target Lists” were approved by the President’s “Tuesday Cabinet,” largely without military presence in the room. ere was a 30-mile forbidden zone around Hanoi, a 10-mile zone around Haiphong, and a 30-mile buer-zone along the Chinese border. At one time, 111 SAMs were counted on rail cars, but an attack on them was not allowed. e SAMs sites had to be fought one at a time, once you were red on. Around 80% of the U.S. losses over the North were due to AAA, and by 1967 the North Vietnamese were ring 27,000 tons of ammo per month.From March 1965 to November 1968 the U.S. Air Force put 154,000 attack sorties over the North, the Navy/Marines putting up another 152,000 sorties. e Air Force lost 506 aircraft, the Navy 397 and the Marines 19, for a total of 922. e Air Force had 745 aircrew shot down, 145 rescued, 255 KIA, 222 captured, and 123 MIA. e Navy and Marines had some 454 KIA, MIA and captured in that 44-month time frame. e Air Force F-105 uds ying out of ailand had a saying, “by your 66th mission, you will have been shot down twice and picked up once.” Almost half of the uds built were lost over the North.It is said that North Vietnam was the most heavily defended real estate in the history of warfare. e following pages detail the Navy and Marine Corps A-6 losses in the Air Campaign against North Vietnam. One might note that we kept going after the same targets, cruise after cruise, and year after year. When we nally got our wish to go after the “high value” targets, that had long been on the Restricted / No Bomb List, the loss rates went up accordingly. Be careful what you wish for—VA-75 went rst and lost four aircraft then VA-85 went next and lost seven aircraft then VA-65 went third—it was known that the fate of the A-6 program was in the hands of that squadron. e powers that be cut back on using it as a day/VFR iron bomber, and started using it for the night, all-weather mission that it had been designed to carry out. It ultimately came to pass that during the monsoon seasons, from late September to early May (eight months of rain and fog concealing targets), it was primarily the A-6 Intruder carrying the ght to the enemy.Ponder the bravery of the crews who ew these missions, and the hard-working maintenance crews and tech reps who kept them ying, with their around-the-clock eorts to get the birds in an “Up and Up” status. Nobody said it was going to be easy, and it wasn’t.It might not have been much, but it was the only war we had. And to quote one of the legends of the Intruder community, “we were winning when I left, and we made history.” at we did Sir, that we did. And it was an honor to have own with you all, in that damn war!

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50 MCAA Journal www.ymcaa.orgese two Strategic Squadrons, Marine All-Weather Attack Squadron 242 (VMA(AW)-242) “Bats” and VMA(AW)-533 “Nighthawks,” were tasked daily by the White House to perform nightly attacks on the most heavily defended targets in history. Commander in Chief, Pacic, (CINCPAC) had divided North Vietnam into six areas for targeting control purposes. Each was called a Route Package; Route Package 1 started at the demilitarized zone (DMZ) going northward with Route Package 6 being all the territory bordering China, north of the Red River, which included Hanoi. A Route Package would be referred to as RP, Pak, or Pack.Air Force historian, Walter Boyne noted the following in Route Package 6: “In every war, there is a place that comes to symbolize its most ferocious moments. For airmen in the Vietnam War, it was Route Pack 6, taking the battle to the heart of Hanoi—“going downtown.” A relatively small band of U.S. pilots fought a long and valiant war under conditions that rarely made sense to them. Handicapped by onerous—foolish might be the better term—rules of engagement, they nonetheless ew into battle every day, delivering bombs on the most well-defended targets in history. Many brave men died in the process, and more suered the fate of imprisonment by a cruel enemy.” Boyne went on to emphasize, “e other Route Packages were dangerous and consumed many aircraft and aircrews, but there was no question that Pack 6 was the toughest of all.”e Bats and Nighthawks became the mainland-based night arm for the White House, who would select the targets and assign the target times to CINCPAC ultimately via 7th Air Force to the First Marine Aircraft Wing (1st MAW), and then each squadron. In reality, these two squadrons were tactical night-attack assets for the 7th Air Force, who conducted the Rolling under daylight attacks with their ghter aircraft. e Navy ying from carriers on Yankee Station conducted day and night attacks into these Route Packages also with their ghter and attack aircraft. eirs is another story of valor and sacrice, notably their A-6A squadrons. Eighty-four Navy and Marine A-6As would be lost during the Vietnam War, with a great majority of the aircraft being lost over RP 6.e Bats and Nighthawks were each assigned four targets nightly in RP 6; each another four targets amongst the other Paks for a nightly total of eight. In addition, for III Marine Amphibious Force (MAF), Bats and Nighthawks each ew four TPQ aircraft nightly, each sortie dropping twenty-eight bombs on the DMZ; during the day, each four close air support (CAS) sorties supported the engaged Marine infantry utilizing a lot of napalm along with 500 bombs.is burden of endeavor was accomplished by less than 80 Marine aviators comprised of pilot-bombardier/navigator aircrews. is small group would become the most highly decorated Marine xed-wing aviators of the Vietnam War. In fact, the Navy Cross was awarded to three members of this group, the only such award to a Marine xed-wing pilot during the war.

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2020 Symposium 51 Route Package Six — Targets and AwardsThere were 3 Navy Crosses (NC), 14 Silver Stars (SS), and 1 Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) awarded for these 9 missions. There were numerous other DFCs awarded during this Rolling Thunder timeframe.25 October 1967, Phuc Yen Airﬁeld, SW of Hanoi—Lew Abrams (NC) / Jack Wagner (SS), VMA(AW)-24225 October 1967, Phuc Yen Airﬁeld, SW of Hanoi—Fred Cone (NC) / Jim Anderst (SS), VMA(AW)-24225 October 1967, Phuc Yen Airﬁeld, SW of Hanoi—Ken Bateman (NC) / Gerry Westendorf (SS), VMA(AW)-53327 October 1967, Paul Doumer Bridge (Hanoi RR & Hwy Bridge)—Andy Martin (SS) / Mike Burns (SS), VMA(AW)-24227 October 1967, Paul Doumer Bridge, Hanoi—Hank Dewey (SS) / Doug Wilson (SS), VMA(AW)-24228 October 1967, Paul Doumer Bridge, Hanoi—Bill Kretzschmar (SS) / Donn Hiltbrunner (SS), VMA(AW)-53331 October 1967, Canal des Rapides Bridge, Hanoi—Joe Warshaw (SS) / Jack Simmons (DFC), VMA(AW)-24221 February 1968, Radio Hanoi—Bill Fitch (SS) / Charlie Carr (SS), VMA(AW)-53323 February 1968, Radio Hanoi—Bruce Beckman (SS) / Rudy Schwanda (SS), VMA(AW)-242 During this same period, the following losses were experienced:VMA(AW)-533, Hon Gay—Val Bacik / Pat Boggs (both KIA)VMA(AW)-242, Canal Rapides Bridge—Hugh Fanning / Steve Kott (both KIA)VMA(AW)-242, Kien An Airﬁeld, Haiphong—Lew Abrams / Bob Holdeman (both KIA)VMA(AW)-533, Vinh Yen—Hobart Wallace / Pat Murray (both KIA)VMA(AW)-533, Hoa Loc Airﬁeld—Jerry Marvel / Larry Friese (both POW, returned)Enemy Order of Battle: Historians recount that North Vietnam was the most heavily defended piece of real estate in the history of air warfare. To put this into perspective, North Vietnam has about 80% of the land mass that the state of California does. In 1967, it also had 400 air-defense radars, 8,050 anti-aircraft (AAA) guns, 200 SA-2 Guideline surface-to-air missile (SAM) sites, and 150 ﬁghter aircraft. And the enemy knew you would be back tomorrow, the next day, and the day after that. First-hand accounts from the war show that NVN had a 30 to 45-minute warning time on approximately 80-90% of the Rolling Thunder missions.If your bite of the apple was attacking the Paul Doumer Bridge that night, you had a 60 nanometer (NM) run-in from when the aircraft crossed over land, “feet-dry,” to the bridge at an altitude below 300 feet where SAM lock-ons began. In an 8 NM radius around the bridge, there were 60 ﬁre-control radars, four hundred and ﬁfty-ﬁve 37mm and 57mm guns, three hundred 85mm guns, and 13 active SAM sites. Then you had to get out of “Dodge” by ﬂying another 60 NM on egress while staying below 300 feet above ground level.The Doumer Bridge came off the Restricted Target List in early October 1967, and on 6 October, the F-105 Thuds deployed out of Thailand taking down portions of the bridge for the ﬁrst time in a daylight strike. The cost was seven Thuds shot down that day. The defenses over the North were formidable to say the least!

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52 MCAA Journal www.ymcaa.orge Bats and Nighthawks attacked targets from Hon Gai Naval Harbor in the east, stretching westward to Yen Bai, north to ai Nguyen, “going downtown” Hanoi, Kep Airbase, Phuc Yen Airbase, Kien An Airbase, Haiphong, and numerous other targets lost to history in RP 6. To say they were not, “Seasoned Veterans of Route Package 6,” would be a fallacy.eir airmanship is probably best described in the Hall of Valor. First, for this night attack on Phuc Yen Airbase, the crown jewel of the North Vietnam Air Force, has awarded the Navy Cross; “Major [Fred J.] Cone began his descent to evade enemy radar. Undaunted by the intense enemy anti-aircraft re, he skillfully maneuvered his aircraft towards the objective. Major Cone’s surface-to-air missile warning device indicated that a missile had been launched. He banked his Intruder into a head-on collision course and with split second timing, snapped the aircraft down and away from the missile so that it exploded harmlessly in the air. Observing a second missile being launched, he skillfully avoided it 300 feet above the ground. While nearing the target and engulfed in intense enemy ground re, he encountered a third and fourth missile. Utilizing the same tactics, he skillfully avoided the third missile, however, the fourth missile exploded above his aircraft tossing it into a violent maneuver. Although his plane was damaged, Major Cone continued on his course. Quickly putting his aircraft into a steep climb so that safe separation from the blast of his bombs could be achieved, he dropped four and one-half tons of ordnance, devastating the target. While turning outboard, he encountered a fth missile. Quickly assessing the situation, he jettisoned his drop tanks to gain speed and maneuverability, thus avoiding the missile. By his bold initiative, devotion to duty and superb aeronautical skill, Major Cone was instrumental in destroying an enemy aireld.”Second, for this night attack on the Hanoi Rail Road and Highway Bridge from 300 feet: awarded the Silver Star, “Captain Donnal Hiltbrunner, serving as bombardier/ navigator… was assigned the mission of penetrating deep into the enemy’s formidable defensive periphery in order to lay mines in the river owing below the span which serves both the principal northern access to the city of Hanoi and a key link in the main supply artery connecting that city with Communist China. Captain Hiltbrunner expertly and condently navigated his aircraft as it pierced the enemy’s ghter patrol and early warning radar network. Employing his radars and navigation equipment, he directed the pilot in a descent and subsequent perilous low altitude dash through the enemy’s outer surface-to-air missile rings. Despite sporadic concentrations of enemy anti-aircraft re, the threat of surface-to-air missiles and the inherent dangers of high speed, low altitude, instrument ight, he calmly and successfully vectored the pilot to the initial attack point. As the aircraft was detected by enemy radar, they were completely engulfed in anti-aircraft re. Undaunted, Captain Hiltbrunner directed the pilot toward the target and directly into the staggering volume of tracer re and air bursts. As the aircraft neared the release point, it was taken under a vicious stream of crossre. Completely ignoring the personal dangers involved and almost certain disaster to the aircraft, Captain Hiltbrunner vectored the pilot through the critical nal phase of delivery as the aircraft miraculously pressed through the perilous area and released the mines on target.”Note: is target also known as the Paul Doumer Bridge was defended as follows: thirteen active SAM sites; four nautical mile radius=one hundred and eighty-eight 37/57mm guns, one hundred and twenty-one 85mm guns; eight nautical mile radius=455 37/57mm guns, three hundred 85mm guns; Anticipated Reaction: Heavy 37/57/85 mm radar-controlled re and SAMs.} Most all of the targets in Pak 6 were similarly defended as noted above; powerful search lights were also a common vertigo threat. Soviet Migs were also a constant threat; they were known to be own by Vietnamese, Chinese, and North Korean pilots. e Soviet-supplied SAM sites were mostly Russian manned; the 37/57/85mm radar controlled anti-air artillery (AAA)was mostly Chinese supplied and controlled.Bats and Nighthawks would descend into RP 6 from the west or east, getting below 500 feet as quickly as possible, terrain allowing, throttling an airspeed of about 470mph with two drop tanks and normally eighteen 500-pound bombs.Always, the aircraft’s electronic countermeasure (ECM) Equipment notied the airmen that it detected the AAA Firecan radars with its constant buzzing; likewise, the SAM Fansong radar would also be heard in their headsets with its deeper sound, trying to acquire the aircraft. Above 500 feet, the APR-27 “Warbler,” the cockpit missile warning receiver, would rattle itself as the Fansong radar attempted to lock on. When lock on occurred, a loud rapid, “deedle deedle,” warning sounded of an imminent SAM launch. All this jacked up, the adrenaline ow even more in addition to the ery AAA tracer darts coming at the aircraft. It took nerves of steel to stay focused on the target.e low-level run in would be followed by a pop-up maneuver to about 1,500 feet ten miles from the target to avoid bomb damage to their own aircraft. After the bombs were released, “getting the hell out of Dodge” airspeed was about 520 mph, while closely hugging the ground until it was safe to ascend. Most targets were reached after an hour or so after takeo from Danang (Bats) or Chu Lai (Nighthawks). e majority of the western track attack ights recovered in ailand at Udorn Air Force Base to refuel, then return to their home base.ese were all single plane missions, though on a rare occasion two A-6As would be coordinated on a target. e last six months (October 1967-March 1968) of the Rolling under Campaign into Pak 6 were the most rigorous, deadliest—with prisoners-of-war and soldiers both missing-in-action and killed in action—for the Bats and Nighthawks. It was a long, demanding thirteen months for these eighty Marine aviators (pilots & bombardier/navigators).ese Intrepid Marine aviators “Rode the under.”Lastly, all they ever asked for was: “A Taste of Tomorrow’s Sunrise.”

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2020 Symposium 53 ‘Twas’ Nineteen and Sixty Seven-Eight,Marine Corps xed-wing aviators In Southeast Asia they would be,Side-by-side in an A-6A two aviators would rideBoth with joy sticks they would guide.Nightly north of the Red River,Into Route Package 6 ey would glide,Haughty and rude, Route Pack 6 Would Not Abide.Riding two jet engines Blowing hot smokeOut twin tail pipes, All alone, they would snipe,From dusk to dawn Above North Vietnam they would roam.Route Pack 6, the toughest of them all,ey would own.Fragged by 7th Air ForceAgainst Chinese Radar Control, 37, 57, 85mm anti-air artillery, Search lights, Russian SAMs,ey would endureSoviet Migs aloft, ey were never sure.Rolling under was their refrain,Under 500 feet and over 500 speed was their game.With eighteen 500 pounders, they would scheme,Bats and Night Hawks doing the same.Assigned eight sorties nightly, Marine Intruders would penetrate Against the most ferocious targets ever,In Route Pack 6, they would denigrate. Yearlings, there they would sustaineir MIA, KIA, POWs caused them pain,Bats and Night Hawks hunting over the plain.Navy Crosses, Silver Stars, Distinguished Flying Crosses,Valiant Veterans of Route Package 6.e most highly decorated xed-wing Marine aviators,Vietnam Marine aviation would see. ey gave their all,“If ever North you must y,You must be prepared to die,”Was their siren’s call.But nobody knowsAnd nobody caresBut once upon a time,Nightly they would stealInto a blazing dark windOf hot molten steel.An Ode to the A-6A Forgotten

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OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOMOPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM(PART two) Excerpt from Chapter ThirteenThis article is adapted from a chapter of Dr. Allison’s forthcoming book on modern Marine Corps Aviation that will be published by Marine Corps University Press.OPENING MOVESAs Marine ﬁxed-wing aircraft arrived in February they began ﬂying SOUTHERN WATCH missions. Besides whittling away at Iraq’s defenses, the SOUTHERN WATCH ﬂights allowed aviators to become familiar with the CFACC’s air command and control system and built their knowledge of the operating area and the enemy defenses. These missions also produced intelligence as advanced tactical aerial reconnaissance system (ATARS)-equipped F/A-18Ds and Harriers with LITENING II Targeting Pods acquired pictures and data. SOUTHERN WATCH missions increased in number and intensity as the war’s beginning neared. The day that OPERATION SOUTHERN WATCH ended and OIF I began there was a dramatic increase in ﬂights with 3d MAW ﬂying 259 missions that day—only 24 were CFACC missions.1 Many strikes were directed at taking out the Iraqi 51st Mechanized Division, ostensibly guarding the border.2 2020 Symposium 55 This depicts a 3d MAW mobile air control unit that was set up near FARPs and FOBs to control air trafﬁc. This particular unit is at expeditionary airﬁeld Joe Foss during OIF in 2003. PHOTO COURTESY: CPL MICHAEL LEITENBERGER, USMC PHOTO, DVIC

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56 MCAA Journal www.ymcaa.orgOften “D-days” are pushed back, but not in OIF I. In this case, it was moved up. On 19 March, intelligence reported a gathering of high-ranking members of Sadaam Hussein’s sta, including Sadaam himself, at the Dora Farms complex outside Baghdad. e President and Central Command authorized a “decapitation” strike.3 erefore, a precision air strike of ship-launched Tomahawk missiles and precision bombs by F-117 stealth ghters and F-15E Strike Eagles smashed into Dora Farms shortly before sunrise on 20 March. Sadaam was not present.Marine participation in this impromptu mission was limited, yet signicant. Airborne electronic-warfare support was provided by EA-6B Prowlers of VMAQ-1. ey were already airborne on a planned mission when the airborne warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft directed them to y to Baghdad and support the F-117 and Tomahawk strikes. Near Baghdad, the EA-6Bs laid down electronic communications jamming and watched as bombs and Tomahawks slammed into Baghdad and Iraqi anti-aircraft re streaked the sky. Major Scott A. Cooper on board one of the Prowlers described it as “a great reworks show.”4 As a result of this surprise strike, Sadaam unleashed a volley of Scud missiles at coalition forces. ey splattered, apparently un-aimed, into Kuwait, some close to encampments, but inicted little harm. e Scuds sent coalition troops repeatedly scrambling into chemical protective suits and into air raid bunkers. e only Scud casualty to 3d MAW Marines was the sleep they needed to y, work and ght. An Army Patriot missile brigade that had been attached to MACG-38, defended Marine positions and in at least one case shot down a Scud. e soldiers who operated the Patriot batteries also rolled with the FARP teams into Iraq to provide air defense for I MEF troops on the march to Baghdad.5e Marine’s mission in the rst 96 hours was to destroy observation posts along the Iraq/Kuwait border as well as the Iraqi 51st Mechanized Division guarding the border. Once the border was clear, seize the Rumaylah oil elds, relieve the 1st United Kingdom Division near Basrah, and advance north of the Euphrates River.6 e ground invasion was moved up 12 hours from 0600 local, 21 March, to 1800 on 20 March. is made it a night attack instead of a dawn attack. is was driven by fear that Sadaam, believing the decapitation strike signaled the initiation of a predictably lengthy air campaign, would react by torching oil wells in the huge Rumaylah eld in southern Iraq. A couple of oil wells were already burning and spewing smoke. Destruction of oil wells would deny revenue needed to fund the new Iraqi government, create an environmental disaster and make military operations quite dicult, as in Desert Storm. Further motivation to begin the war early came from a reported force of 70 tanks poised near the border. Were the Iraqis planning a counterattack? Pre-invasion air strikes were planned to knock out enemy observation posts along the border and especially on Safwan Hill, a 550-foot high prominence. Safwan was the only prominence on the otherwise table-at terrain. It bristled with communications equipment and overlooked the breaching points along the border. With the invasion commencing 12 hours ahead of schedule, aviators scheduled to y these rst missions were scrambled to their aircraft. It was dark and the wind swirled clouds of dust. e 3d MAW was given the assignment of destroying the border observation posts. e aviators from the “skid” squadrons, HMLA-267, HMLA-269, and HMLA-169 headed for targets in what was described by veteran yers as the worst weather they had ever own. Had Marine ground troops not been in action the “skid kids” certainly would not have been ying.7 Before the Cobras and Hueys had arrived however, Hornets and Harriers bombed Safwan, led by the Green Knights of VMFA(AW)-121 who dropped the rst bombs, joint direct attack munitions (JDAMs). e pre-assault aerial bombardment aimed to neutralize any Iraqi opposition to the planned assault on Safwan Hill by 1st Force Reconnaissance Marines. e recon Marines’ were to be inserted on Safwan Safwan Hill on the Kuwait/Iraq border was an important Iraqi observation post that oversaw breaching points that Marines planned to use when the order came to move into Iraq. Photo Courtesy: GySgt Erik S. Hansen. PHOTO COURTESY: USMC; NARAA VMFA(AW)-533 F/A-18D roars down the al-Jaber runway, ordnance loaded for a combat strike on Iraqi units during OIF. PHOTO COURTESY: VMFA(AW)-533.

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2020 Symposium 57 by HMM-162 CH-46s. e despicable weather made nding the target extremely challenging for the Cobras and Hueys. Captain Derek A. Montroy of HMLA-267 ying a Huey and leading a division of Cobras toward their targets, saw his targeted observation post on his FLIR at 1500 meters. He did not visually see it however, until door gunner, Gunnery Sergeant Jorge Alvarado “lit it up” with his LAU-17 mini-gun.”8Regardless of the diculty, the strike force of gunships found their designated observation post targets and blasted them with Hellre and TOW missiles, and cannon and gun re, rendering them inoperable. e environmental conditions however, made ight extremely dicult and deadly. is was a major factor in a friendly re-incident when a Cobra crew red a Hellre missile into a Marine tank. Fortunately, there were no casualties. Lieutenant Colonel James S. O’Meara’s division of CH-46s carrying reconnaissance Marines made three attempts to land in a tiny landing zone on Safwan Hill. In each instance O’Meara had to abort his landing due to “minimal-to-no visual clues or horizon and severe brown out.” On his last attempt, he did not see the ground until his CH-46 was only feet away. O’Meara realized his descent was too rapid and to avert a crash or hard landing, over-torqued his helicopter transmission to stop the helicopter’s descent. at was enough for O’Meara, he canceled the night insertion. It was conducted successfully at dawn the next day.9 Marine aviators supported an assault by 550 British troops and Marines with 44 Marine (15th MEU) helicopters to gain control of the Al Faw Peninsula, and establish control of the oil elds and the port of Umm Qasr, Iraq. ese aircraft launched and proceeded toward their landing zones but the weather caused a mission abort. It was not cancelled soon enough, however, as one CH-46 crashed costing the lives of eight British troops and four Marines.10 e next day, the Brits and 15th MEU Marines, ying in HMM-161 and HMH-465 helicopters, executed a vertical assault on Umm Qasr. e main Marine assault was by land and began the night of 20-21 March. Gunship pilots responded to calls for CAS despite the weather. ey were forced to y low and slow, trying to navigate in the totally black night, over featureless and unfamiliar terrain while ghting o extreme vertigo. When they had the chance, they landed at FARPs already positioned near the border. After that night they “all had near-death experience stories to tell.” e determination to provide air support in the harrowing ight conditions exacted a tremendous stress on the pilots. Legs were wobbly and some wept upon landing, relieved to be on terra rma or a ship’s deck, alive.11 e war was on and the drive to Baghdad had begun. Early in OIF, F/A-18D squadrons were in direct support of 1st MarDiv units. Major General Mattis was concerned about the substantial and capable Iraqi artillery facing his division. He “charged 3d MAW with nding it and destroying it before it ranged his infantry units.” In the opening hours, each of three F/A-18D squadrons partnered with one of the 1st MarDiv’s three regiments to provide direct air support. e “blistering fast” thrust of the 1st MarDiv into Iraq at the war’s beginning required these Hornet aviators to know and understand the ground scheme of maneuver. For example, Lieutenant Colonel L. Ross “Migs” Roberts’ VMFA(AW)-533 “Hawks” coordinated with the 7th Marine Regimental Combat Team (RCT 7) months earlier. Roberts had insisted that his aviators become well versed in the RCT 7’s combat plan. As combat drew near, aviators met frequently with the appropriate regimental ocers and when combat began the F/A-18D crews were capable partners with the regiments and hit target well forward of their lead units.12 Control of these deep support strikes was aided by using the resources and capabilities of the tactical air operations center (TAOC), a command and control facility normally focused on air defense. Without an enemy air threat, a communications tie between the TAOC and the 1st MarDiv was established, and with its radar capability the TAOC could monitor and assist with the control of air strikes forward of the re support coordination line (FSCL) in kill boxes. Kill boxes, as in Desert Storm and in Kosovo were control measures. Kill Ofﬁcers of HMLA-269 gather in a tent at Jalibah FOB for an all-ofﬁcers meeting. This depicts expeditionary conditions experienced by helicopter squadrons during OIF-I. PHOTO COURTESY: LTCOL JEFFREY HEWLETT.

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boxes were dened by terrain grids, 30 by 30 nautical miles and subdivided into smaller boxes delineated by latitude and longitude lines. In kill boxes, aviators once cleared to operate in the box were assured that friendly troops were well clear and any enemy encountered was fair game. ey were a means to coordinate and control aviation in enemy territory beyond the forward line of troops. Marines added another control measure called the battleeld coordination line (BCL). It was laid closer to the forward line of Marine troops than the FSCL and essentially established kill box control there. e DASC and TAOC knew the location of friendly units, and, therefore, could safely open and close kill boxes beyond the BCL, so that strike pilots could nd and strike targets at will, but still under close oversight. Command and control was enhanced in this deep support by F/A-18D crews (sometimes Harriers using LITENING pods provided this service) who, ying search coordinated armed reconnaissance (SCAR) tactics, found targets and served as airborne forward air controllers (FAC-A) in kill boxes. is facilitated the cycle of target detection and destruction by “populating the battle space with tac air, each crew acting as a sensor to either engage or report on the plethora of targets arrayed along 1st MarDiv’s line of advance.”13 Hornets and Harriers rolled into the kill boxes immediately north of I MEF’s lead elements, beyond the battleeld coordination line, scouring the terrain for the enemy and attacking him when found. Marine FARP teams followed close in trail of infantry assault units. From the invasion’s beginning they had been about the business of setting up FARPs. Requisite in a FARP team was the necessary gear and equipment to operate a basic aireld and included a Marine mobile team (MMT) that established air trac control at the FARP. Other FARP gear included fuel trucks, re-ghting equipment, fuel bladders with associated pumps, heavy equipment for runway repair, and tools for explosive ordnance disposal. Squadrons provided Marines to FARP teams for ordnance, aircraft LtCol Gary L. Thomas, F/A-18 pilot and commander of the VMFA-323 “Death Rattlers” while deployed with Carrier Air Wing 2 aboard USS Constellation (CV 64), led a CVW-2 early strike on Baghdad. Thomas later became Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps. Here he is shown as a brigadier general and deputy commander of II MEF (Fwd). PHOTO COURTESY: U.S. MARINE CORPSAn AH-1W Super Cobra of HMLA-169 armed with AGM-114 Hellﬁre missiles, is ready to ﬁght in support of Marines. PHOTO COURTESY: LCPL ANDREW P. ROUFS, USMC; NARAA forward arming and refueling point (FARP) convoy moves north through Iraq close behind Marine advancing regiments. Battleﬁeld desolation and destruction is evident in the photo. PHOTO COURTESY: LTCOL JEFFREY HEWLETT.

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2020 Symposium 59 maintenance and medical (U.S. Navy corpsmen) support.14 During the miserable rst night, FARPs were established along the Kuwait-Iraq border where helicopter pilots found a place to land and sanctuary from the awful ying conditions. FARP teams not only provided aireld support for helicopters, Harriers and KC-130s, they represented a U.S. presence in enemy territory and at times attracted enemy re. In this case, Marines serving in FARP detachments personied the Marine Corps mantra, “Every Marine a rieman,” as they defended their convoys, FARPs and FOBs. Some of these “wing” Marines earned combat action ribbons.15 e aireld at Al Kut was renamed Blair Field in honor of Lance Corporal omas A. Blair, a member of 2d Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, who died in Ambush Alley in an Nasiriyah.Marine ghter pilots of VMFA-323, the “Death Rattlers,” commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Gary L. omas, would have own in the earliest Baghdad strikes, the ones scheduled to initiate the war on 21 March had not the war begun early. Nevertheless, they ew in some of the earliest strikes. e Death Rattlers were aboard the USS Constellation (CV 64), part of Carrier Air Wing 2 (CVW-2). Arriving in the Persian Gulf shortly before Christmas, 2002, they commenced Southern Watch operations striking communications, command and control nodes, assisting in the systematic destruction of what remained of Sadaam’s war ghting machine. As the war approached, CVW-2 was given a lead role in the rst strike. omas served as mission commander for the 41-plane coalition strike and Captain (later Vice Admiral) Mark Fox, USN, the CVW-2 commander served as ight lead for the rst strike. omas, who was responsible for planning was required to de-conict multiple strike aircraft from dierent services that originated from dierent bases all ying toward target Baghdad. Timing was everything; CVW-2 aircraft crews had a window from 2110 to 2122, 12 minutes to nd their targets, get positioned and drop their ordnance. eir strikes were to follow-up in close succession the volley of cruise missiles and Tomahawk land attack missiles (TLAMs) that hit Baghdad rst.Eighty miles out the Marine pilots saw the TLAMs slam into the city. Baghdad erupted in explosions followed by a urry of air-defense weapons, guns, cannons and surface-to-air missiles arcing skyward. e Death Rattlers and others carried the latest in precision bombs, stando land attack extended-range bombs and joint-stando weapons. ey released them miles out and hit Baghdad radar facilities. Prowlers suppressed enemy guidance systems with electrons and when needed high-speed anti-radiation missile shots. No coalition aircraft were hit.16NASIRIYAHBy 22 March 2003, two days into the war, I MEF’s infantry units were 100 miles into Iraq and approaching an Nasiriyah. Marine riemen had faced less opposition from the Iraqi military than expected although the Sadaam Fedayeen (“men of sacrice”) had, unexpectedly shown a stout resistance to the Marines’ advance. An Nasariyah was an important milestone for the drive to Baghdad. Marines turned the airport south of town, Jalibah, into a key logistics, command and logistics hub. Eventually, a massive bulk-fuel farm was set up there, which was fed by a 60-mile long fuel hose originating in Kuwait. is long-distance hose had been laid by Marines of the 6th Engineer Support Battalion. is hose provided a constant supply of fuel without relying on vulnerable overland convoys.17 A U.S. Navy F/A-18E Hornet aircraft assigned to VFA-137 (foreground) and a Marine F/A-18C Hornet from VMFA-323, prepare to launch from USS Constellation (CV 64). The Constellation and Carrier Air Wing 2 (CVW-2) were deployed conducting combat missions in support of OIF. PHOTO COURTESY: PH2 CHARLES E. ALVARADO, USN; DVIC

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60 MCAA Journal www.ymcaa.orgExpeditionary air command and control was the standard in OIF. Marine Air Control Squadron 2 (MACS-2) commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Raphael Brown in the months before OIF, had anticipated a need to become more mobile. MACS-2 ocers on their own initiative had acquired enough of the new Marine seven-ton trucks (Marine Tactical Vehicle Replacement), on which to load squadron radar and gear. Once Marine combat regiments drove into Iraq, MACS-2 was close behind and established a tactical air operations center (TAOC) at Jalibah within days. Part of MACS-2 was later split o from the Jalibah TAOC and followed 1st MarDiv units to Al-Kut and established a similar capability there.18 e main roads to Baghdad, Highways 1 and 7, ran through Nasiriyah. e bridges in Nasiriyah that crossed the Euphrates and Sadaam Canal were essential to keeping the 1st MarDiv moving. Task Force Tarawa had the mission of seizing the city and securing the bridges. Marines were wary of an Nasiriyah, actually any urban area. Marines wanted to avoid them as they channelized infantry columns, made them predictable, slow and vulnerable, and gave the enemy cover and concealment. Urban terrain consisted of the homes and businesses of those being liberated and therefore preparatory res were minimal and there was no pre-planned air support.19 e main route through town along its eastern side had already been labeled “Ambush Alley.” e danger was evident, but Marines knowing that the local populace was Shia Muslim, and had been oppressed by Sadaam, would likely not be hostile. Also, Army units were expected to enter Nasariyah, and would have subdued any resistance, before the Marines arrived.20 Such was not the case. As Company A of the 1st Battalion, 2d Marines secured the rst bridge, the one over the Euphrates, Company B moved forward to continue the advance. Just as tanks supporting Company B cleared the bridge and fanned o the road to provide supporting res, they bogged down in sodden terrain. With Company B bogged down, Charlie Company, plunged up Ambush Alley, which lived up to its name at that point and erupted with re of all sorts, small arms, mortars, heavy machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades, even enemy tanks took the Marines under re. Iraqi ghters had been emboldened by their success with the ambush of the Army’s 507th Ordnance Maintenance Company earlier that morning and when a call to arms came from the local mosque, Iraqis of all stripes picked up weapons and came forth to kill Americans. One Cobra pilot knew a serious battle was shaping up when he observed women and children streaming north out of Nasiriyah and adult males heading into town.21 Although there were some Iraqi uniforms amongst the ghters, for the most part it was Fedayeen doing the ghting and they were hard to distinguish as combatants. ey wore civilian clothes, sport shirts, blue jeans or traditional robes with running shoes, they darted in and out of buildings, taking a few quick shots then disappearing amongst the general populace. One Charlie Company Marine, emerging from an amtrak recalled, “ey were located north of us, they were located west of us, they were located south of us, and they were located east of us.”22 Charlie Company managed to cross the further bridge, over the Sadaam Canal but experienced withering re not just in the transit through Ambush Alley, but once established on the other side of the bridge, they were surrounded by enemy ghters. e 3d MAW tactical air command center (TACC) religiously adhered to a policy of “if the Marines are taking re, let’s get the airplanes in the air.”23 Volumes of coalition aircraft winged toward Nasiriyah when it became apparent a ght was in progress. Rotary-wing pilots heard of the big ght at Nasiriyah and ew on their own to the sound of the guns. Pilots red their ordnance, in Nasariyah then ew to nearby Jalibah to refuel, rearm and return to the ght. Some Cobra pilots logged more than ten hours of ight time that day. Some of the rst to respond were from HMLA-269, the “Gunrunners” commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Jerey M. “Huey” Hewlett. e “Gunrunners” had displaced to the Jalibah forward operating base, dubbed “Riverfront,” soon after Task Force Tarawa had secured it. ey had own o the Saipan (LHA 2) a day earlier and were experiencing life in direct support of Task Force Tarawa. Living conditions were rudimentary they had slept on the ground or hammocks under their aircraft, surrounded by fuel trucks and dined on meals-ready-to-eat. Upon being alerted of the ght in Nasiriyah, they scrambled, and hurriedly gathering mission details, they launched and ew north. Among the rst out was a Cobra own by Captain Craig H. Streeter and co-pilot Captain Brad T. Farrar followed soon by squadron mates in two other Cobras, Captain Matthew R. Shenberger and co-pilot 1st Lieutenant Travis R. Richie and their wingman Major Brian T. Bruggeman with co-pilot 1st Lieutenant John B. Parker. e sudden outbreak of major combat had The miserable operating conditions for the coalition attack into Iraq are evident in this photo of HMLA-269 Cobras preparing to ﬂy night missions. PHOTO COURTESY: LTCOL JEFFREY M. HEWLETT

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2020 Symposium 61 left the rst responding aviators with little information on specics as the re support plan did not include a need for large amounts of sustained CAS. To nd the scene of action they followed miles long columns of vehicles of Task Force Tarawa and RCT-1 to Nasiriyah and surfed through radio frequencies to nd a FAC. Streeter arrived overhead Nasiriyah and established radio communication with Major Donald S. “Hawk” Hawkins, a FAC for Alpha Company, 8th Tank Battalion.24 Upon determining that Streeter was a FAC-A, Hawkins relied on him to assist with strike control, as did other FAC-A qualied Marine pilots during the day long ght. ey coordinated re on enemy targets and directed xed-wing air strikes. As the ghting bogged down along Ambush Alley, Brigadier General Richard F. Natonski, TF Tarawa commander, boarded a UH-1N Huey for an over ight of the battle which greatly enhanced his situational awareness.25 For helicopter pilots, part of the peril at Nasiriyah was the power lines that laced the area. As they operated low and ew at high speed to minimize their vulnerability to small arms re, they also had to maintain constant vigilance for power lines. As the ght continued through the morning, sections of Cobras and Hueys ew in and out of Nasiriyah, tag-teams of gunships that would hand o the ght to their squadron reliefs as they exhausted their ordnance loads. e FOB at Jalibah had only been in operation a few hours yet it was closest to the Nasiriyah ght and its services were in high demand by helicopter crews. It was chaotic as helicopters ew in and out for fuel and ordnance. One Cobra pilot Major Doug M. Hardison, the Gunrunner’s executive ocer recalled the crowded and near chaotic conditions at the FOB: “ere were broken airplanes o to one side…we landed there and a CH-46 that was actually hovering over us trying to land on us. Airplanes [pilots] were screaming, ‘I need gas, I need ordnance, now, now, now!’” As Hardison and fellow Gunrunner, Major Eric S. “Ferris” Buer waited for their Cobras to be serviced, they looked toward Nasiriyah. Hardison recalled that, “You could see the tracers coming up…big ‘ol ZSU-23 [a Soviet produced anti-aircraft gun employed by the Iraqis] coming up, crossing, it was impressive, and we were, like, ‘Man, this one’s not easy;’”26When casualties were unloaded from CH-46s at Jalibah, the urgency level shot up. Hardison recalled, “Psychologically it was a kick in the gut…when we were at Jalibah, and they’re pulling [wounded and] body bags out of the 46 and you saw that…you [think] ok, this is a slugfest, this is brutal.”27One of the CH-46s might have been one from HMM-162 and own by Captain Eric S. Garcia. A quiet, unassuming ocer, his helicopter was vectored into Nasiriyah to pick up casualties. Garcia had to work to get good communications to execute the evacuation, he persisted and got a FAC brief on the situation, the landing zone and the casualties, and then ew into Nasiriyah. Covered by Marine Cobras, Garcia ew his CH-46 into the small landing zone Marines laid out as they dodged Fedayeen bullets. e zone was the dead end of a narrow alley with two and three-story buildings on three sides. Marine infantry lined the streets and alleys, trading shots with Fedayeen shooting from windows and rooftops. Major Donald Hawkins, the FAC, recalled: “I see this Phrog [CH-46] coming in, aring, landing in this alley and I think, ‘is guy needs two things, a DFC [Distinguished Flying Cross] and a psych eval.’” Upon settling in the zone his crewmen assisted the Marines dragging their wounded buddies into the CH-46, a U.S. Navy corpsman who was part of Garcia’s crew got shot himself while loading wounded and had to be dragged aboard. Once loaded, Garcia hovered up then out of the hot zone while his door gunners blazed away at enemy ghters.28 Garcia y as fast as the Phrog back to the closest medical facility. Cobras, Hueys, F/A-18s, AV-8Bs, and A-10s were in force over Nasiriyah and were pivotal in suppressing the enemy and protecting Marines. e aviators were determined to provide the re support their infantry brethren needed. Captain Shenberger, at one point, ew his Cobra at 100 feet slowly down Ambush Alley covering Marines trapped by enemy re. One round, probably a 37mm smashed into one of his rotor blades, the eect of which he recalled was “like a baseball bat slamming his canopy.” Testing the Cobra’s ying functionality and airworthiness, he found it solid. He continued to y the aircraft throughout the day. Shenberger was awarded the DFC for his actions at Nasiriyah.29 e fog of war and battle dynamics caused a horric fratricide. When Charlie Company pressed forward and crossed the bridge over the Sadaam Canal, they were well forward of the rest of Task Force Tarawa. e Company B, A CH-46E Sea Knight, piloted by Capt “Steamer” Unger and Capt “Baby” DeKraii of HMM-162 “Wombats,” refuels at “Three-Rivers” FOB during OIF. PHOTO COURTESY: GT HOWARD J. FARRELL, USMC; NARA

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62 MCAA Journal www.ymcaa.orgFAC did not realize this, thinking that his company was the battalion’s lead. Company C did not have a FAC. e B Company FAC thinking his unit was the battalion’s lead, gave clearance to U.S. Air Force A-10s to strike beyond the Sadaam Canal, a type of CAS known as Type III. With Type III CAS the FAC neither sees the strike aircraft or the target. e battalion commander has to approve this type of strike. It also places a large degree of responsibility on the pilots to insure they are hitting a legitimate target. e Air Force pilots, under re themselves, with clearance to attack, did attack armored vehicles which appeared to be enemy vehicles since they were heading toward what they thought was the head of the Marine column. ese vehicles were actually C Company vehicles carrying out wounded. e A-10s made multiple attack runs on them. As a result of the ght in Ambush Alley Charlie Company suered 18 killed and lost ve tracked vehicles. Other vehicles were damaged and 17 Marines wounded. How many were killed because of friendly re has not been determined.30Although the worst was over by the evening of the 23rd, Hueys and Cobras continued to patrol over the restless city. At night because of the curfew, anything that moved was considered hostile. Lieutenant Colonel Hardison and co-pilot Captain Jeremy N. Hester ew continuously from 1600 until 0800 the next morning. Hardison recalled, “We were as busy as busy could be, we shot, shot, and shot some more, generally rockets [2.75-inch] and guns—people in the street, cars…it was brutal.”31 Captain Robert B. Rider and co-pilot 1st Lieutenant Chris S. Beneld of HMLA-269 were directed to attack orange and white taxicabs commandeered by Fedayeen of which there were many. Task Force Tarawa secured the Nasiriyah bridges spring-boarding RCT-1, which two days later was clear of Nasiriyah and surging up Highway 7 for Al Kut. Although the bridges were secure, Nasiriyah continued to fester with enemy ghters. Fighting to secure all the Nasiriyah bridges and surrounding terrain, alongside civic aairs and humanitarian operations (the ree Block War) persisted into early April. ird MAW aircraft, reinforced by HMM-263, the aviation combat element of the 24th MEU(SOC) supported these operations in a number of ways most importantly with re support, casualty evacuation and logistics resupply, this support continued during the blinding sand storm on the 25th and 26th.32 At an Nasiriyah on 1 April Marines played a key role in one of the war’s most publicized events, the rescue of Army Private Jessica D. Lynch. All four services participated in the rescue. Marines from Task Force Tarawa joined with an Army Task Force 20 composed of Army Rangers, to provide the security force for Navy SEALs that stormed the hospital where Lynch was detained. Colonel Stuart L. Knoll, commander of MAG-16 planned the rescue mission and assigned Lieutenant Colonel Gregg A. Sturdevant, commanding HMM-165 and Lieutenant Colonel Daniel C. Deamon, commander of HMH-465 as assault ight leaders. Harrier pilots of VMA-211, the “Wake Island Avengers,” commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Kevin S. Vest, and VMA-214, the “Black Sheep,” commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Robert E. Claypool, employed LITENING pods to provide surveillance and precision CAS for the rescue.33 e Lynch rescue was one of the largest vertical envelopments of the war for Marine helicopters. In the dark of night, ten Marine helicopters, a mix of CH-46s and 53s, ew 288 U.S. Army Rangers into the appointed Nasiriyah zone to provide security for the rescue. e operation was a success and the publicity, some of which was LITENING pod video, provided a morale boost for the military and the home front, who had been assured by some media outlets that the war was becoming a quagmire.34 In addition, it revealed the competence and professionalism of the U.S. military and further exorcised the ghosts of Desert One and Vietnam.e ght at Nasiriyah was a turning point. Prior to Nasariyah resistance had been minimal, but the Fedayeen’s sti resistance at Nasiriyah made it clear that there were Iraq forces determined to resist the coalition’s eort to liberate Iraq. It also revealed their tactics, hit-and-run, eeting, quick attacks. After Nasiriyah, the “gloves came o.”35 General Mattis regarded the enemy who fought Marines in Nasiriyah with considerable disdain, they lacked “manhood,” he attested, who “literally hide behind women and children….” General Amos renewed his determination to ght to win: “When the Saddam Fedayeen came down, and they were picking o our Marines…my whole perspective of how we were going to ght this war changed. I was going to try to destroy every single piece of Iraqi military equipment and … kill every single Iraqi soldier that fought back.”36Squadron Marines lived, worked, and slept in the open as depicted in this photo of conditions at Jalibah FOB, just south of an Nasiriyah. A vicious sandstorm makes the austere conditions miserable. PHOTO COURTESY: LTCOL JEFFREY HEWLETT.

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2020 Symposium 63 1 CFACC (coalition forces air component commander) strikes were in support of the bigger air war, not in direct support of Marines. 2 3dMAW ComdC, 1Jan-30Jun03, (Gray Research Center, Quantico, VA), pt. 3; Saint, p. 117.3 Saint, pp. 123-125. 4 Saint, pp. 124-125. 5 Hilberer intvw. 6 Saint, pp. 136-137. 7 3d MAW ComdC, 1Jan-30Jun03,(Gray Research Center, Quantico, VA), pt. 2, p. 1; Col Jerey M. Hewlett intvw with Fred Allison, 19Feb08, transcript, p. 89 (Oral HistColl, History Division, Quantico, VA), hereafter Hewlett intvw.8 Montroy intvw, m Maj Derek A. Montroy intvw with Fred Allison 8Sep05, sound recording and summary (Oral HistColl, History Division, Quantico, VA), hereafter Montroy intvw. 9 HMM-162 ComC, 1Mar03-31Mar03, (Gray Research Center, Quantico, VA), pt. 2, pp. 4-5. Montroy intvw; Col James S. O’Meara intvw with Fred Allison, 26Jan11, sound recording and summary (Oral HistColl, History Division, Quantico, VA). 10 Saint, pp. 152-154. 11 Maj Jamie Cox, “Call Sign ‘Deadly’-Snakes in the Attack,” Personal Account, author’s les (Gray Research Center, Quantico, VA); Hewlett intvw, pp. 89-90; Col Douglas M. Hardison intvw with Fred Allison, 19Oct06, sound recording and summary (Oral HistColl, History Division, Quantico, VA), hereafter Hardison intvw.12 Roberts and Farnum, pp. 40-41; LtCol Michael D. Visconage and Maj Carroll Harris, ird Marine Aircraft Wing, Operation Iraqi Freedom (Quantico, VA: Marine Corps Assoc., 2004), p. 165.operation Iraqi freedom (part TWO) Endnotes13 Roberts and Farnum, p. 42. 14 Stout, pp. 150-152. 15 Robling to Allison and Saint, p. 38. 16 LtCol Gary L. omas intvw with Fred Allison, 23Mar04, sound recording and summary (Oral HistColl, History Division, Quantico, VA), hereafter omas intvw. 17 Saint, pp. 131-132. 18 LtCol Chris S. Richie intvw with Fred Allison, 10May11, notes (Oral HistColl, History Division, Quantico, VA). 19 Col Rod Andrew Jr., An-Nasiriyah-U.S. Marines in Battle (Washington, D.C.: History Division, United States Marine Corps, 2009), p. 20.20 Reynolds, p. 65.21 LtCol Donald S. Hawkins, Majs Craig Streeter and Matthew S. Shenberger and GySgt Kevin Barry intvw with Fred Allison, 13Oct06, transcript, pp. 56-57 (Oral HistColl, History Division, Quantico, VA), hereafter Nasiriyah Group Intvw. 22 Reynolds, pp. 71-72. 23 Maj James W. Frey intvw with Fred Allison, 30Nov06, sound recording and summary (Oral HistColl, History Division, Quantico, VA), hereafter Frey intvw.24 e 8th Tank Bn, or “8th Tanks” is one of two Marine Reserve tank battalions. 25 Nasiriyah Group Intvw, pp. 22-26. 26 Stout, pp. 134-136; Hardison intvw.27 Hardison intvw.28 Hewlett intvw, pp. 113-114. 29 Hewlett intvw, p. 110; Nasiriyah Group Intvw, pp. 89-90. 30 Andrew, pp. 17-20; “Close Air Support,” Joint Publication, 3-09.3, 8Jul09; Saint, p. 173-175. e FAC was found guilty in the subsequent investigation for allowing Type III CAS without the battalion commander’s approval. 31 Hardison intvw. 32 Reynolds, p. 86; Andrew, pp. 32-33. 33 Saint, pp. 210-212; VMA-214 ComdC, 1Apr-30Apr03 (Gray Research Center, Quantico, VA), pt. 2, p. 5; Col Robert E. Claypool intvw with Fred Allison, 26Jan11, sound recording and summary (Oral HistColl, History Division, Quantico, VA), hereafter Claypool intvw; LtCol Robert E. Claypool intvw with LtCol Michael D. Visconage, 24May03, sound recording and summary (Oral HistColl, History Division, Quantico, VA). Black Sheep Marines were surprised to see that some of the video they acquired with their LITENING pods on television reports of the rescue. 34 Saint, pp. 210-212. 35 LtCol Michael D. Folgate intvw with Fred Allison, 20May11, sound recording and summary (Oral HistColl, History Division, Quantico, VA), hereafter Folgate intvw. Folgate recalled that an email circulated throughout the 3d MAW from a general ocer, whose name he could not recall, included the phrase, “the gloves are o.”36 Reynolds, pp. 76-77; Amos to Quilter and Visconage, p. 27; Andrew, pp. 40-41.

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64 MCAA Journal www.ymcaa.orgNamed in memory of Lieutenant Colonel Mario “Sugar Bear” Carazo, who was lost to enemy action in Afghanistan when his AH-1W Cobra was shot down while supporting Marines engaged in a reght on 22 July 2010; he was just 41 years old. Carazo was born on 25 May 1969, in Inglewood, California. He entered the United States Naval Academy where he graduated in 1991, with a B.S. in History, as a member of the 19th Company. He went on to y the AH-1W Cobra with HMLA-369 “Gunghters” at Camp Pendleton, California. He did two Marine Expeditionary Unit deployments, followed by a tour as an instructor at the Fleet Replenishment Squadron. He attended the Amphibious Warfare School in Quantico, Virginia, and then went back to Camp Pendleton for another tour as a Gunghter. Sugar Bear then attended the United States Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island, as a Major, where he received an M.A. in National Security and Strategy. He was not satised with one M.A., so he attended the School of Advanced Warghting in Quantico and received his second in Operational Studies. He took this newfound knowledge, and as only he could do, applied it on another deployment — in OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in December 2007, and he returned from Iraq in August 2008, becoming the Executive Ocer of MAG-39, and ultimately the Commanding Ocer of Headquarters Squadron 39. He then deployed to Helmand Province, Afghanistan in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM.Mario spent his life focusing on taking care of the people in his life. ere was always the “Sugar Bear” smile to pick you up, or the “What’s going on, kid,” to begin a bull session, but there was the certainty that he would do whatever was possible to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone he cared about – his family, both immediate and extended.Lieutenant Colonel Carazo’s personal decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, and Meritorious Service Medal with gold star, Navy-Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medal with gold star.e Sugar Bear Foundation was founded by his wife, Jennifer, who initially saw it as a way to honor his memory while also reaching out to help others. However, through her association with other Gold Star families and organizations, she realized that there were gaps in critical needs for surviving spouses and has continued to add services as needs arise. Here Are a Few of the Resources for Survivors:Financial Assistance Program — is program is available to Gold Star spouses (active duty death) to assist with nancial needs that arise due to home or automobile repairs, medical or dental needs not covered by insurance etc. Free Coaching Scholarship — When a spouse loses a service member it is a period of immensetrauma, stress, and uncertainty. As a means of helping these familiesdeal with our current situation and COVID-19, we are working to assist them in another period of transition. As such, we are very happy to oer a scholarship and take part in her coaching services. Free Resume Scholarship — Are you a Gold Star spouse looking to return to work, enter the workforce, or start a business? Apply now to receive two independent consultations with a resume professional to address your needs and objectives, then update, revise, or create your resume. Free Tutoring Scholarship — e Sugar Bear Foundation is oering free online tutoring services for Gold Star spouses and children. anks to the generosity of our scholarship sponsor, RF-LAMBDA, you can sign-up for assistance as many of our Gold Star family’s transition to online or homeschool education. As part of MCAA’s mission to “give back” we are highlighting organizations who take care of our Marines.The Sugar Bear FoundationTheSugarBearFoundation.org

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2020 Symposium 65 NEWmembersDONATIONSMaj David T. BaileyLtCol Matthew J. BaumannMs. Lauren E. BrownMaj Michael R. CarielloMaj Nathanielle CarpenterLtCol Jack G. ChildsSgt Allen C. DodsonLtCol James C. FordMaj Rob GibsonSSgt Dalton S. GlissonCol Clarence T. HarperWelcome New MembersMr. Lyle G. HenschellSgt Joseph E. JacobsSSgt Richard J. KeeneyMr. Donald A. MacaulayLtCol William M. MooreCapt Robert A. MunsonSSgt Je PendergistCapt Nicholas P. PetredisLtCol David O. SaxtonMr. Scott SimsMaj Benjamin J. VigilDonations in Memory of / in Honor ofCol Olen S. AkersIn Memory ofWilliam “Bill” Johnson and LtCol Hardy StennisIn Honor ofCol Claude “Bud” DeeringLtCol Wm A. AllansonIn Memory ofLtGen Chuck Pitman and Capt John AliyettiAileen BlancIn Memory ofRichard “Dick” Blanc and Claire GregorcykCol William T. BridghamIn Memory ofLtCol Bob ColemanR.L. ButtereldIn Memory ofCol J. P. MonroeCol Je DavisIn Memory ofLtCol Ben “Chili” PalmerLtCol Stephen J. DyroIn Memory of Paul Joseph Riding “Hood”Col William R. JonesIn Memory of Col J. P. MonroeCol Fleet LentzIn Memory of Col Hank “Clipper” Ivy, LtCol Fred “Razor” Schober, and Maj Bill “Suitcase” SimpsonCol Bud LewisIn Memory ofB. Jo LewisCol Darwin D. LundbergIn Memory ofCol J.P. MonroeMr. William A. McVeyIn Honor ofDaryl McClungGen William L. NylandIn Memory of Col J. P. MonroeCol James W. OrrIn Memory of Col J. P. MonroeCol Larry OutlawIn Memory of Col J. P. MonroeCol Eric J. SteidlIn Memory ofLtCol David C. WeirCol Eleanor M. WilsonIn Memory of Col J. P. MonroeGroup Level — $500 – $999Col Darwin D. LundbergSquadron Level — $100 – $499Col Olen S. AkersAileen BlancCol William T. BridghamR.L. ButtereldMr. Cecil L. CaviezelCol Je DavisLtCol Stephen J. DyroCol John A. GagenCol William R. JonesCol Peter LeeCol Fleet LentzCol Bud LewisMr. William A. McVeyGen William L. NylandCol James W. OrrCol Larry OutlawCol Gaines L. WardCol Eleanor M. WilsonDivision Level — $25 – $99LtCol Wm A. AllansonCol Michael R. CatheyMr. John K. FrenchCol James M. MutterCol Laura J. SampselGen Joseph J. Went$20Eric J. Steidl

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68 MCAA Journal www.ymcaa.orgAlthough ﬁrst chartered in 1972, the genesis of the organization dates back to World War I with the First Marine Aviation Force Veterans. As a result, sharing the legacy and heritage of Marine aviation and bringing aviation Marines, both active duty and retired together is at the core of our mission.MCAA promotes and recognizes professional excellence in Marine aviation, supports the fraternal bond of its membership, preserves Marine aviation heritage, and safeguards the future of Marine aviation through awards programs, events and publications.MCAA currently has 53 corporate members. A large part of our membership comes from the aerospace industry. Through our corporate membership and generous donations, we support numerous awards, scholarship programs and the Semper Fi fund. MCAA also supports aviation memorials and aircraft museum restorations. Although ﬁrst chartered in 1972, the genesis of the organization dates back to World War I with the First Marine Aviation Force Veterans. As a result, sharing the legacy and heritage of Marine aviation and bringing aviation Marines, both active duty and retired together is at the core of our mission.MCAA promotes and recognizes professional excellence in Marine aviation, supports the fraternal bond of its membership, preserves Marine aviation heritage, and safeguards the future of Marine aviation through awards programs, events and publications.MCAA currently has 53 corporate members. A large part of our membership comes from the aerospace industry. Through our corporate membership and generous donations, we support numerous awards, scholarship programs and the Semper Fi fund. MCAA also supports aviation memorials and aircraft museum restorations. 715 Broadway Street, Quantico VA703–630–1903In This Issue The Super GaggleBeyond Aviation Ordnance Final ApproachSUMMER 2019The Magazine of Marine Aviationwww.ymcaa.orgTheIn This IssueMarine Aviation’s First Medal of Honor RecipientsOPERATION TAILWINDThe Battle to get Marine Aviation on CarriersFall 2019/Win ter 202 0The Magazine of Marine Aviationwww.ymcaa.orgTheIn This IssueGeneral Christian SchiltOPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM (Part One)An Unexpected LayoverSpring 2021e Magazine of Marine Aviationwww.ymcaa.orgTheMARINE CORPS AVIATION ASSOCIATIONwww.ymcaa.orgHONORING THE BEST OF THE BEST IN MARINE AVIATIONIn This IssueThe 2019 MCAA Aviation Award Winners Above and Beyond the Call of DutyLegends of Vietnam: Shoulder-to-ShoulderMay 2019