Page 79 - DFCS NEWS MAGAZINE 2020-1

ROBERT E. STUMPF
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Gold Star in lieu of the Second Award) to Commander Robert E. Stumpf, United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot of an F/A-18 aircraft with Strike Fighter Squadron 83 embarked in USS SARATOGA (CV 60) on 21 January, 1991. As the strike leader of a 24-plane attack on crucial SCUD Missile Storage facilities near Ar Ramadi in Central Iraq, Commander Stumpf spearheaded the effort to thwart the enemy’s offensive capability. He orchestrated and executed a brilliant plan which resulted in the destruction of 21 SCUD storage buildings. Undaunted by bursting anti-aircraft fire and active surface
to air missile systems, Commander Stumpf located the target through four-fifths cloud cover and led the attack. He delivered four 2,000-pound bombs with pinpoint accuracy, scoring direct hits on a cluster of missile storage buildings and destroying all three. Commander Stumpf’s extraordinary airmanship and leadership were instrumental in curtailing the enemy’s SCUD capability, thereby
contributing to coalition solidarity and ultimate victory over Iraq. By his inspiring courage, aggressive initiative, and loyal devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Commander Stumpf reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
ROBERT L. GIBSON
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander Robert L. Gibson, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in space flight as the Commander of the Shuttle Orbiter COLUMBIA 12 to 18 January, 1986. Commander Gibson’s outstanding leadership, exceptional flying skills, and dedication significantly enhanced the successful achievement of major mission objectives, including the efficacious deployment of a SATCOM communications satellite, the processing of new materials in space, and an unscheduled night landing at an alternate landing site. Commander Gibson’s distinguished achievements, skilled
airmanship, and unfailing devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SUMMER 2020 / DFCS News Magazine / 79