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File: aaalf_03.txtCITATION TO ACCOMPANY THE AWARD OF THE AIRMAN'S MEDAL TO ERIK K. VANKAMPEN Sergeant Erik K. Vankampen distinguished himself by heroism involving voluntary risk of life at Al Kharj Air Base, Saudi Arabia on 11 April 1991. On that date, Sergeant Vankampen rushed to the scene after F-16A 79-0391 had blown a nose tire and veered off of the runway on takeoff. When the aircraft burst into flames, the pilot ejected, landing less than 150 feet from his stricken aircraft. With complete disregard for his own safety and the hazards posed by hydrazine exposure, burning JP-8 fuel, and live munitions engulfed in flames, he ran through the choking black smoke to reach the injured pilot. Grabbing him by the parachute harness, sergeant Vankampen dragged the pilot to safety. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Sergeant Vankampen reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.
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