Air Force Secretary Michael Donley presented outgoing Undersecretary of the Air Force Erin Conaton with the Air Force Decoration for Exceptional Civilian Service, citing her invaluable contributions to the service. During the May 30 presentation ceremony at the Pentagon, Donley honored Conaton for her “extraordinary leadership, strategic vision, and superb management” during her two-year-plus tenure as Air Force’s No. 2 civilian. Among her duties, she was the service’s chief management officer and lead for space and energy matters at the headquarters level. “It has been truly an honor to serve,” said Conaton, who later this month will assume her new post as undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness. She added, “To be part of this organization has been exceptional, and to be affiliated with this group of leaders is just remarkable.” (Washington, D.C., report by TSgt. Richard A. Williams Jr.)
F-15E Aviator Missing in Iran Rescued by US Forces
April 5, 2026
The second crew member of the F-15E shot down April 3 has been rescued from Iran. U.S. forces recovered the aviator alive and all American forces involved in the operation are believed to be safe, U.S. officials told Air & Space Forces Magazine.