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.
The Air Force wants to spend more than a half billion dollars through 2031 on a new protection system designed for cargo and refueling aircraft that features onboard sensors and weapons to track and take down enemy missiles and drones.