Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Airman’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Staff Sergeant

    Action Date:

    June 17, 1995

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Airman’s Medal to Staff Sergeant Barbara Ann Abare, United States Air Force, for heroism involving voluntary risk of life at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, on 17 June 1995. On that date, while off-duty, Staff Sergeant Abare was one of the first to respond to a Republic of Korea Air Force F-5 accident at the end of the Kunsan Air Base runway. While she was initially prepared to remain in an area of safety, a call for “medics” was made from the area of the aircraft and Staff Sergeant Abare rushed to the aircraft. Despite the hazards of unexploded ordnance and air-to-air missiles in the area, the potential for a fuselage explosion due to leaking fuel and residual smoke, and the unknown status of the pilot’s ejection seat, Staff Sergeant Abare tended to the immediate medical needs of the seriously injured pilot. She managed large, bleeding facial lacerations, maintenance of an open airway and provided active suction of blood from the mouth and airway. Staff Sergeant Abare was also actively involved in the pilot’s extrication. Her assistance at the scene resulted in the safe extrication of the pilot and the eventual transfer of more definitive emergency care services. By her courageous action and humanitarian regard for her fellowman, Staff Sergeant Abare has reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.