Vietnam-era Flying Ace Visits Ronald Reagan During COMPTUEX

[wackychick]

USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- A noted Vietnam-era flying ace, embarked USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) April 3-4 as the ship participated in simulated combat scenarios during Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) off the coast of California.

William "Irish" Driscoll, a former radar intercept officer (RIO) for F-4 Phantom II aircraft, is a familiar name and face to naval aviation. He, along with pilot Randall "Duke" Cunningham, became famous May 10, 1972 when their aircraft encountered a group of 16 hostile MiG-17s from North Vietnam.

Shooting down three of the 16 aircraft, Driscoll earned the Navy Cross and went on to receive two Silver Stars, 10 Air Medals, a Purple Heart and even a nomination for the Congressional Medal of Honor during the Vietnam War.

Driscoll's visit was part of the Navy's distinguished visitor program, which helps government officials, business executives, community and educational leaders learn more about carrier aircraft operations.

The Vietnam-era flying ace received an extensive tour of the ship and watched flight operations, all the while learning about the newest procedures of the Navy's carrier fleet and the Sailors who work on board.

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