McGuire AFB, N.J. -- On February 9, 2003, 108th Operations Squadron Vice Commander Lt. Col. Robert “Rory” R. Doolittle was awarded the Bronze Star for having distinguished himself by meritorious achievement while engaged in ground operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, which refers generally to U.S. military operations associated with the War on Terrorism outside the United States. Maj. Gen. Clark Martin, New Jersey Air National Guard Commander, presented the airman the prestigious medal.

Stationed in Oman from December 2001 to March 2002, Doolittle, a Maryland native, was assigned to the 405th Air Expeditionary Wing. While there, he “flawlessly organized the first-ever Air National Guard tanker unit under an Air Combat Command AEW.”

According to his citation, not only did he develop all the policies and procedures to allow a seamless transition into the 405th AEW, but his leadership led to a 99.8% mission effectiveness rate also.

“ The Air National Guard was there to do what the active duty Air Force couldn’t do, due to other mission taskings,” said Doolittle, referring to the refueling mission. “Nobody goes anywhere without gas…nobody!”

Doolittle commanded over 300 personnel and his squadron provided over 17 million pounds of fuel to combat aircraft. Additionally, he stepped up to the task as a liaison between the local Air Reserve Component members and the theater’s ANG liaison. According to Doolittle, it was challenging to integrate the ANG procedures and style with those of the active-duty. He also had to maintain unit autonomy while still being a critical component of the team. However, as a 22-year veteran of the military service, the EARS commander found Oman to be his most rewarding experience. And while Doolittle was very proud, he was also “quite surprised” when he found out that the 405th had awarded him the Bronze Star..

“ It’s something I’ll never forget, said the EARS commander, “Even though I’m wearing it, if it weren’t for the team effort and contributions of the men and women who were there, obviously I wouldn’t be wearing that medal. I am so proud of the men and women of the 108th Air Refueling Wing.”

What he missed the most was his family. Although email was great, it just wasn’t the same, said Doolittle. He also missed coaching youth basketball and baseball, and he missed the entire college basketball season. Doolittle resides in Tabernacle, New Jersey with his wife, Debbie, of 20 years and three children.