Hosted by PJs in
Vietnam
Last Update:
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Site Mission: Provide Pararescue
and Air Rescue History
Airman's or Soldier's Medal Recipients
Attention to orders. Citation to accompany the award of the Airman's Medal to Sergeant Stephen B. Elson
Sergeant Stephen B. Elson distinguished himself by heroism involving voluntary risk of life at Ramstein Air Base, West Germany, on 28 August 1988. On that date Sergeant Elson rushed to the site of a tragic accident that resulted when three demonstration jet aircraft collided at an annual air show, injuring over 400 spectators. He rendered emergency medical care for as many patients as possible despite the overwhelming sense of helplessness brought on by the fact that over thirty people died at the scene and hundreds more were badly injured. Without his prompt action and humanitarian regard for his fellowman, many more would have died. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Sergeant Elson reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.