On January 31, 1991, an AC130H was performing a support mission deep into
enemy territory when it went down over Kuwait. The crew of the aircraft
included Major Paul J. Weaver; Capt. Dixon L. Walters; Capt. Arthur Galvan;
Capt. William D. Grimm; 1Lt. Clifford Bland, Jr.; TSgt. Robert K. Hodges;
Sgt. Damon V. Kanuha; MSgt. James B. May II; SSgt. John L. Oelschlager;
SSgt. Mark J. Schmauss; SSgt. John P. Blessinger; SMSgt. Paul G. Buege; and
Sgt. Barry M. Clark. U.S. Representative Earl Hutto (D-FL) whose district
includes the home base of the 16th Special Operations Squadron, Hurlburt
Field, later told media sources that the gunship was on a targeting mission,
seeking out enemy targets and directing other aircraft to them.



Silver Star Citation https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/7467
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Senior Master Sergeant Paul Garfield Buege, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against the forces of the Republic of Iraq, while serving as Gunner of AC-130H Spectre Gunship "Spirit 03", of the 16th Special Operations Squadron, U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command, in action against the Iraqi Army near Khafji, Saudi Arabia, on 31 January 1991. On that date, while performing an Operation DESERT STORM AC-130H armed reconnaissance mission, Sergeant Beuge was tasked to engage a free rocket over ground missile site. As the gunship low-light television operator, Sergeant Buege assisted the aircrew by tracking the position of the missile site and began firing 40 and 105 millimeter munitions at the target. While engaging the target, the air crew received heavy fire from numerous anti-aircraft artillery sites. His courageous and aggressive attack continued while under unceasing anti-aircraft artillery fire preventing a missile attack on allied coalition forces. The actions of Sergeant Beuge aided the allied forces in repelling the Iraqi Army incursion south into the Saudi Arabia border town of Khafji. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Senior Master Sergeant Beuge in the dedication of this service to his country reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

The preceding content is not intended as a comprehensive biography, but it highlights their significance as a result of military or civilian distinction, lasting achievements, or association with impactful national events.

PAUL GARFIELD BUEGE

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