AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  -

Citation:  1.) The section lead in a daring four-plane mission to strike the Al Qaim chemical and nuclear test complex. He precisely navigated through 175 miles of hostile territory to deploy the new and untried surface land attack missile (SLAM) system. With skill and determination, Lieutenant Gibson guided the most heavily guarded and defended facilities in Iraq. His wingman's date link pod failed in flight and he was tasked to command the second SLAM. Lieutenant Gibson flawlessly steered it to impact through the opening left by the first missile, completely destroying a key element of Iraq's nuclear production capability. By his superb airmanship, inspiring courage, and total devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions, Lieutenant Gibson reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.