The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal to Major General Howell Marion Estes, III, United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. General Estes distinguished himself as Commander, 14th Air Division, Beale Air Force Base, California; Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff, Plans and Resources; Deputy Chief of Staff Plans and Resources; and Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, Headquarters Strategic Air Command, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, from 25 June 1987 to 20 June 1991. General Estes’ bold leadership and keen insight forged a new era for the Strategic Air Command. To meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world order, he directed innovative planning and diligent analysis to plot a course for the future. His efforts allowed the Strategic Air Command to adapt wisely to the shifting threat environment and to survive a severely constrained defense budget while still providing a strong nuclear deterrent and global warfighting potential. When the National Command Authority directed United States forces into combat in Southwest Asia, General Estes put plans into action as the Director of Operations for the Strategic Air Command Senior and Support Battle Staffs. From this vantage, he waged relentless strategic warfare in support of the air campaign for Operation DESERT STORM. The Strategic Air Command’s unequaled performance during the war is directly attributable to the dedication and superb leadership of General Estes during every phase of the operation. The consummate professional, General Estes made a distinct and lasting impact on the Strategic Air Command. He directed the strategic combat operations of the day and he laid the foundation for strategic airpower of the future. His actions immeasurably contributed to the enduring national security of the United States of America. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Estes reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal to General Howell Marion Estes, III, United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. General Estes distinguished himself as Commander, Air Force Space Command, Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, from 23 August 1996 to 30 September 1998. As the principal commander providing space and missile forces for unified warfighters, General Estes clearly identified the critical crossroads faced by the Air Force. His persuasive advocacy significantly advanced the progress toward a seamless aerospace force. His unique ability to inspire teamwork and trust led to unprecedented partnerships across civil, military, commercial, and international space sectors–the centerpiece of his strategy to guide force modernization into the 21st Century. In a time of historic change and uncertainty, General Estes kept his forces sustained and ready, safely maintained nuclear deterrence, realized space’s promise, and created a climate of trust and respect for his people to achieve their full potential. As a result of his vision, the Air Force is poised to migrate new mission to space, dramatically reduce the cost of access, and help America expand its preeminence in space. He energized every aspect of our space programs to usher in a new era of national security and economic strength. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Estes culminate a long and distinguished career in the service of his country and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.