Robert “Bob” Pardo, a celebrated US Air Force legend renowned for his extraordinary aerial maneuver called “Pardo’s Push,” died on December 5, 2023, in College Station, Texas, at the age of 89.
On March 10, 1967, then-Captain Pardo and his weapons officer, 1st Lieutenant Steve Wayne, were on a critical mission in North Vietnam, targeting a steel mill north of Hanoi. Flying alongside them were Captain Earl Aman and 1st Lieutenant Robert Houghton.
During the mission, both of their F-4C Phantoms were heavily damaged by ground fire, losing fuel rapidly and facing the grim prospect of not making it back to base.
Faced with a desperate situation, Pardo made an unprecedented decision. He chose to use his plane to physically push Aman’s damaged F-4, employing the tailhook of Aman’s plane as a point of contact.
Despite facing immense challenges, including turbulence, a fire in his own plane’s left engine, and the risk of both jets crashing, he persisted with his plan.
This remarkable maneuver, executed with extraordinary flying skill, reduced Aman’s rate of descent, allowing both aircraft to reach Laotian airspace. All four airmen ejected and were rescued, avoiding capture or death in enemy territory.
His audacious and selfless act not only saved lives but also became a defining moment in military aviation, demonstrating the power of ingenuity and courage in the face of adversity.
Initially, he faced potential reprimand for the loss of his aircraft. However, recognition of his heroism came years later. In 1989, Pardo and Wayne were awarded the Silver Star, acknowledging their gallantry and valor during the mission.