Robert Chester Buckles

MAJOR ROBERT CHESTER BUCKLES
U.S. Air Force Academy Class of 1959
Cadet Squadron: 7

SERVICE & PROFESSIONAL HISTORY
Robert "Bob" Buckles graduated with the historic "First Class" of the United States Air Force Academy in 1959. Initially training at the temporary site at Lowry Air Force Base, he was part of the foundational group that established the traditions and rigorous standards of the Cadet Wing. Following graduation, he entered pilot training at Moore Air Base and Webb Air Force Base, earning his wings in 1960. He then embarked on a distinguished 20-year career that spanned the most critical decades of the Cold War and the height of the conflict in Southeast Asia.

AERIAL REFUELING AND THE COLD WAR (1960–1965)
Upon receiving his pilot wings, Bob was assigned to the tactical air refueling mission. His early service was defined by his mastery of the KB-50J, a complex, six-engine hybrid aircraft (four piston engines and two jet pods) designed to bridge the gap between propeller-driven tankers and supersonic fighters.

He first flew with the 622nd Air Refueling Squadron at England AFB before transferring to the 420th ARS at RAF Sculthorpe, UK. Operating at the "tip of the spear" for USAFE, Bob utilized the KB-50J’s unique triple-point refueling system, which allowed him to refuel three tactical fighters simultaneously from the wingtips and tail. This mission required immense precision and was vital to maintaining a 24-hour airborne deterrent over Europe during the peak of the Cold War.

COMBAT VALOR: THE FORWARD AIR CONTROLLER (1967–1970)
Bob’s versatility led him to staff and operational roles in West Germany and Kansas before he transitioned to one of the most dangerous assignments of the Vietnam War: Forward Air Controller (FAC). Serving two high-intensity combat tours with the 21st Tactical Air Support Squadron (TASS)—first at Qui Nhon (1967–1968) and later at Dalat/Gia Nghia (1969–1970)—he flew the O-1 Bird Dog and O-2 Skymaster.

Flying low and slow over hostile territory and triple-canopy jungle, Bob was responsible for:
• Visual Reconnaissance: Identifying hidden enemy troop movements and fortifications.

• Strike Coordination: Marking targets with white phosphorus rockets to guide "fast mover" jet strikes.

• Search and Rescue (SAR): Orchestrating the extraction of downed aircrews under fire.

His extraordinary service is reflected in his 19 Air Medals. Given that these were typically awarded for blocks of 20–25 combat missions, this total signifies that Bob flew over 400 combat sorties. His Distinguished Flying Cross further marks his legacy as a pilot who demonstrated extraordinary achievement under the most hazardous conditions imaginable.

COMMAND AND GLOBAL OPERATIONS (1970–1978)
Following his combat service, Bob returned to the refueling mission as an Aircraft Commander in the KC-135 Stratotanker. Serving at Grand Forks AFB and Barksdale AFB, he brought his tactical combat experience to the Strategic Air Command (SAC). He concluded his career at Kadena Air Base, Japan, as the Chief of Airfield Management for the 18th Tactical Fighter Wing, overseeing one of the busiest and most strategic airfields in the Pacific.

MEDALS AND AWARDS
• Distinguished Flying Cross
• Air Medal with 18 Oak Leaf Clusters (19 Total Awards)
• Air Force Commendation Medal
• Vietnam Service Medal
• Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm

PERSONAL LIFE AND FAITHFULNESS
Bob’s service was matched by his devotion to his family and his resilience in the face of personal adversity. After retiring in 1978, he spent the following decades in San Antonio, Texas, where he battled heart disease with the same quiet grit he displayed in the cockpit.

He is remembered as a man of steady character and unwavering integrity. He was a dedicated husband to his wife, Sue C. Buckles, and a proud father to his two sons, Richard L. and Gerald A. Bob’s legacy is defined by a steadfast faithfulness to his nation and a quiet professional excellence that spanned the globe—from the flight lines of England to the jungles of Southeast Asia. As a member of the "First Class," he helped set the standard for every cadet who followed.