DECORATION SUBMISSIONS FOR 11 APR 91 ACTS OF HEROISM

File: aaalf_03.txt
Page: 03
Total Pages: 6


                                                                                
    
    
                                          CITATION TO ACCOMPANY THE AWARD OF
                                                          THE AIRMAN'S MEDAL
                                                                         TO
                                                          ERIK K. VANKAMPEN
    
                 Sergeant Erik K. Vankampen distinguished himself by heroism involving voluntary risk of
                 life at Al Kharj Air Base, Saudi Arabia on 11 April 1991.  On that date, Sergeant Vankampen
                 rushed to the scene after F-16A 79-0391 had blown a nose tire and veered off of the runway
                 on takeoff.  When the aircraft burst into flames, the pilot ejected, landing less than 150
                 feet from his stricken aircraft.  With complete disregard for his own safety and the
                 hazards posed by hydrazine exposure, burning JP-8 fuel, and live munitions engulfed in
                 flames, he ran through the choking black smoke to reach the injured pilot. Grabbing him by
                 the parachute harness, sergeant Vankampen dragged the pilot to safety.  The exemplary
                 courage and heroism displayed by Sergeant  Vankampen reflect great credit upon himself and
                 the United States Air Force.