Two Fairchild AFB, Wash., airmen, both explosive ordnance disposal technicians, have received medals for heroism while deployed to Iraq. TSgt. Jesus Hernandez received a Bronze Star and SrA. Amos Smith an Army Commendation Medal with “V” device. Hernandez led 93 missions to dismantle improvised explosive devices, often while under direct attack. Smith, also at Sather, helped save military personnel involved in a Humvee rollover into a water filled canal.
Gene Smith, Former POW and AFA Chair, Dies at 91
Jan. 19, 2026
Audio of this article is brought to you by the Air & Space Forces Association, honoring and supporting our Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Find out more at afa.orgLt. Col. Richard “Gene” Smith, who overcame five and a half years as a...

