U.S. Airmen honored by Spanish Armed Forces

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Stephanie Longoria
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ALBACETE AIR BASE, Spain --  Six U.S. Air Force Airmen were presented the Spanish Cross of Aeronautical Merit honoring their heroic actions during a medal ceremony, June 18, 2015.

The medal is awarded to individuals for acts of service that prevent injury or death to others that may be in potentially dangerous and harmful situations.

The medals were presented by the Spanish Minister of Defence, Pedro Morenes, to the following Airmen:  Master Sgt. Jonathan McNeely, Albacete Air Base aerospace maintenance coordinator, Staff Sergeants John Escalante, 5th Munitions Squadron, Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, Gregory Swarz, Eli Gordon, 48th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron and Senior Airmen Matthew Jeffers and Nevin Wolsleben, 48th AMXS.

On January 26, 2015, a Hellenic F-16 crashed at Albacete Air Base during Tactical Leadership Program 15-1, killing nine French and two Greek service members, and injuring 21 others.  While most sought safety from the flames, the six Airmen ran towards the wreckage to help others and provide first aid.

"Those actions that many of you conducted on that unfortunate day are clear evidence of your great professionalism and a reason for your country to feel proud of you," said the Spanish Minister of Defence. "I sincerely wish to thank you and recognize your dedication and fulfillment of your duties."

Medal recipient Master Sgt. McNeely said, "The aircraft were launching out; I looked up just in time to see a flash of grey as it was about to hit the French aircraft.  Immediately after that, I saw these brave young Airmen responding."

The Airmen were humbled to be recognized by the Spanish Armed Forces, as it is a rare occurrence.

Staff Sgt. Greggory Swarz, a  492nd Aircraft Maintenance Unit electrical environmental systems specialist, was one of the first of four Royal Air Force Lakenheath Airmen to run towards the wreckage, saving three French air force airmen.

"I don't think I did more than I had to do," Swarz said. "I think I did what should have done.  But I'm very happy that they're alive and I'm glad I was able to make a difference."

After the awards ceremony, a memorial service was held to honor the 11 fallen comrades, where a memorial statue with a plaque was unveiled.