20 years ago today, on 31 Jan 1991, SPIRIT 03, an AC-130H from the 16th SOS was shot down by a MANPAD while providing close air support for Marines during the Battle of Khafji. All 14 crewmembers died. It was the single largest loss of Air Force personnel during the Gulf War. Please take a moment to remember their sacrifice...

Major Paul J. Weaver - Pilot

Captain Clifford Bland, Jr. - Co-Pilot

Captain Dixon L. Walters - Electronic Warfare Officer

Captain Arthur Galvan - Fire Control Officer

Captain William D. Grimm - Navigator

Senior Master Sergeant Paul G. Buege - Sensor Operator

Senior Master Sergeant James B. May II, Gunner

Technical Sergeant Robert K. Hodges - Gunner

Technical Sergeant John L. Oelschlager - Gunner

Staff Sergeant Timothy R. Harrison - Gunner

Staff Sergeant John P. Blessinger - Sensor Operator

Staff Sergeant Mark J. Schmauss - Illuminator Operator

Staff Sergeant Damon J. Kanuha - Flight Engineer

Sergeant Barry M. Clark - Gunner

Here's a toast...

Edited January 31, 201114 yr by backseatdriver

Thanks for your sacrifice.

Here's a toast

Them,

Here's a toast...