Another hero goes West ... Gale "Buck" Cleven
Fri Nov 24, 2006 6:33 am
From the 100th BG website:
"It is with much regret I am to report the passing of Gale (Bucky) Cleven at 5am MT on 17 Nov 2006 in Sheridan WY at the age of 87 years old. Buck was the original commander of the 350th Sqd, 100th BG.
Gale "Buck" Cleven was a LEGEND with the group that stood larger than life. The man flew missions even when he could have delegated the responsibility to others under his command. He felt a leader was always at the front of his troops going into battle vs warming a desk. His leadership garnered the respect of his Men from Ground personnel to Flying Crews. He was all business and flew some of the toughest missions before being shot down Oct 8, 1943. On the Regensburg Mission he was recommended for the Medal of Honor (and should have received it) but it was reduced to the Distinguished Service Cross."
My condolences to his family.
Dave
"It is with much regret I am to report the passing of Gale (Bucky) Cleven at 5am MT on 17 Nov 2006 in Sheridan WY at the age of 87 years old. Buck was the original commander of the 350th Sqd, 100th BG.
Gale "Buck" Cleven was a LEGEND with the group that stood larger than life. The man flew missions even when he could have delegated the responsibility to others under his command. He felt a leader was always at the front of his troops going into battle vs warming a desk. His leadership garnered the respect of his Men from Ground personnel to Flying Crews. He was all business and flew some of the toughest missions before being shot down Oct 8, 1943. On the Regensburg Mission he was recommended for the Medal of Honor (and should have received it) but it was reduced to the Distinguished Service Cross."
My condolences to his family.
Dave
Fri Nov 24, 2006 11:50 pm
I remember him from the Jablonski book.
Wade
Wade