ATLANTIC CITY, NJ - Major David G. Haar, an F-16 pilot and commander of the 177th Fighter Wing's detachment at Warren Grove, received the United States Air Force's Air Medal on Sunday, July 15, for maneuvering his crippled F-16 in order to ensure that his aircraft would impact in the ocean precluding any injuries or damage in the surrounding community. Major General Richard C. Cosgrave, Commander of the New Jersey Air National Guard, presented the award.  Haar is a resident of Independence Township, Warren County, N.J.

The citation read during the ceremony is as follows:  "Major David G. Haar distinguished himself by meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight as a F-16C Fighting Falcon pilot, 177th Fighter Wing, New Jersey Air National Guard, Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, on August 31, 2000.  On that day while participating in a training sortie, the F-16C aircraft Major Haar was piloting experienced catastrophic engine problems.  Major Haar correctly analyzed the situation and immediately started to return to the airfield.   However, due to the distance to be traveled, the deteriorating weather conditions and the severity of damage to the aircraft, Major Haar determined he would be unable to recover the aircraft.  At great personal risk, he ensured a safe path for the aircraft, maneuvered the crippled aircraft over the ocean, and after ensuring the aircraft would safely impact the water, he successfully ejected from the damaged aircraft, resulting in no loss of life or civilian property. The Air Combat Command Commander and the Safety Investigation Board commended Major Haar's actions.  The professional skills of Major Haar reflect great credit upon himself, the Air National Guard, and the United States Air Force. "     - From the Citation accompanying the award of The Air Medal 

 Several members of Major Haar's family were present at the ceremony held at the wing's main base location in Egg Harbor Township. 
 
About the 177th Fighter Wing.  The 177th Fighter Wing, New Jersey Air National Guard, is a “community-based” force based at the Atlantic City International Airport.  The wing also maintains a detachment of personnel at the Warren Grove Range, Warren Grove, N.J.  The 177th’s federal mission is to provide combat ready personnel; aircraft and equipment for worldwide deployment in support US Air Force objectives.  The wing’s mission aircraft is the F-16C Fighting Falcon aircraft -- a compact, high performance multi-role fighter.  The unit’s state mission is to protect life and property, provide disaster relief, and ensure public safety when called upon by the governor. The wing continually looks for opportunities to participate in events that add value to the community.

For more information about this press release, please contact Major Roger Pharo at (609) 645-6005.