[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 166 (Monday, October 16, 2017)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1379] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING STAFF SERGEANT RICHARD B. HUNTER ON RECEIVING THE AIR FORCE CROSS ______ HON. MATT GAETZ of florida in the house of representatives Monday, October 16, 2017 Mr. GAETZ. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Staff Sergeant Richard B. Hunter upon being awarded the Air Force Cross, the second highest military decoration that may be awarded to a member of the United States Air Force. While deployed as a combat controller in November 2016, Staff Sergeant Hunter heroically and without regard for his personal safety, maximized effects on the battlefield by integrating air assets, employing precision fires, and protecting the wounded with his own body, saving the lives of his teammates. As friendly forces entered the village, they were ambushed by heavy machine gun fire from insurgents. Staff Sergeant Hunter immediately identified the enemy locations and directed multiple ``danger-close'' strikes so close the team was blasted by dirt. While under enemy fire, Staff Sergeant Hunter shielded the wounded with his body and provided suppressing fire with his rifle. Simultaneously, he coordinated close air support missions, deconflicted airspace, and maximized fire support from the overhead gunships. While attempting to maneuver out of the kill zone, Staff Sergeant Hunter continued to accurately direct ``danger-close'' engagements on the massing enemy forces. Due to the smoke being so thick the team couldn't see, Sergeant Hunter used the overhead aircraft to direct them through the village. At great risk to his life, Staff Sergeant Hunter acted to protect and recover his wounded teammates. While under heavy fire, he was able to direct air strikes via a radio in one hand, and use the other to drag the wounded to safety. Staff Sergeant Hunter controlled 31 ``danger-close'' missions resulting in an estimated 27 enemies eliminated and 3 vehicles destroyed, with the closest precision strike 9 feet away. The courage shown by this dedicated Special Tactics Combat Controller is a true testament of his character. Staff Sergeant Hunter has displayed selfless commitment to service and sacrifice. The exceptional skill that Staff Sergeant Hunter demonstrated resulted in 57 total lives saved. Through his extraordinary heroism, superb airmanship, and aggressiveness in the face of the enemy, Staff Sergeant Hunter reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force. The entire Northwest Florida community is immensely proud of our District's tradition of military service and support for all those who bravely serve our Nation. On behalf of the United States Congress, it is a true honor to recognize Staff Sergeant Richard B. Hunter upon this most notable distinction. He is truly a remarkable man, and I thank him for his selfless service to his country. ____________________