After 18 years the family of Navy Capt Michael “Scott” Speicher finally get to put him to rest. Speicher was the first American lost in the first Gulf War when his F-18 was shot down over Iraq. His body was never recovered leading to speculation regarding his status which was changed several times over the years by the Navy. Iraqi citizens recently provided information that led investigators to Speicher’s remains which had been buried by Bedouins in the desert.
I never knew Scott personally but his loss on that first night of Desert Storm made the war a reality. Half a world away from the air strikes pounding Iraq I stood ready on the deck of the USS Forrestal, the next carrier in the line-up should the Pentagon decide another deck was needed. His loss was a painful reminder of the dangers that Naval Aviation involved.
Rest in peace, Captain.
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This is so good that they found him. I hope the family is feeling good about it. How sad that he was killed, how happy that he wasn’t captured.
Steve, its so good to find you. Lt. Steve Ambrose I was in VS-28 with you on the Forrestal and was your final checker. Bob Buen was another top shit pilot like you but you were the nicest pilot in the squadron, I’ll never forget that, you were cool. I think you sis the Sigonella det too, but know you gave me a ride in Palma. Thank you Brother, I’d give anything to be back there firin up your Sierra Three Bravo. One final salute to you from Bojacki, Wood, Rausch and me…we kept you in the air and safe !!!!
Sorry Steve, missed the typo – meant to say you “did” the Det…lol
BTW who was it that slid their S-3 into the catwalk and someone punched out? remember that and we off loaded the A/C in Italy? I have pictures of that whole thing….What was your call sign painted on the aircraft? I am trying to remember. Have you been in touch with the squadron? is there a reunion or anything? Let me know.
Hate to correct you after a compliment like that but I was an NFO. I flew in and out of SIG but never got to stay – being Comm/CMS and the AT Branch Officer, the front office never let me go anywhere for an extended period.
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