Robert Chapman

Denville, New Jersey - United States Air Force

Written by Joseph Chapman

My brother, Robert "Gleek" Chapman was an Aircraft Loadmaster on a C-130A for the 374th Tactical Air Wing. His job was Forward Air Control (FAC) and Target Illumination.  During his time in the service, he received The Distinguished Flying Cross and nine Air Medals, two with Oak leaf clusters.  His citation states the following,

"Sergeant Robert Chapman distinguished himself by extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Loadmaster on a C-130A Forward Air Control/Target Illumination aircraft in Southeast Asia on the night of August 18, 1968.  On that date, during the reconnaissance of a major supply route, Sergeant Chapman was tasked with the duty of providing flare illumination essential to the defense of a small village.  In spite of heavy extremely accurate antiaircraft fire and adverse conditions, Sergeant Chapman carried out duties essential to the operation against the hostile force in an outstanding manner. His professional skill and coolness under fire contributed vitally to the destruction of the main elements of a heavily armed hostile force. The professional competence, aerial skill, and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Chapman reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force."