Defense Secretary Robert Gates last week visited Whiteman AFB, Mo., where he served, in 1967, as a second lieutenant, coming back at the request of the base community council. While there he presented a Bronze Star medal, a Purple Heart, and Combat Actions Medal to TSgt. Michael Shumate, reports A1C Stephen Linch. Shumate, who is an explosive ordnance disposal technician, received the awards for his actions while deployed to Iraq.
Air Force depots are not typically meant for quick repair jobs, but during Operation Epic Fury, the service moved some of its stateside heavy maintenance capability forward to fix battle-damaged aircraft closer to the fight.
