16 Jun 2021
Today Jim Demarest, President of the USAFA Class of 1982, issued this news release to the class:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
USAFA Class of 1982 launches Steve Phillis Medal of Honor committee:
The United States Air Force Academy Class of 1982 announces the launch of the Captain Steve Phillis Medal of Honor committee. After polling over 130 members of the class, 90% supported upgrading Steve's combat valor award to preserve our Air Force heritage, and recognize the contributions and sacrifice of Captain Steve Phillis, who was shot down and killed under heroic circumstances during his thirtieth mission of Operation Desert Storm on February 15, 1991.
Eighty two members of the class offered to dedicate time to this campaign, and will work through a series of committees to create the upgrade award package, engage members of Congress, advocate for support from current and former Air Force members, and drum up White House support.
Class president Brigadier General Jim Demarest will spearhead this effort, and along with the Class of 1982, will work tirelessly to get Captain Steve Phillis the recognition he deserves for his selfless sacrifice, in the face of great danger, to save his wingman, fellow Academy graduate Rob Sweet.
You can track the progress of this effort by visiting this section of the Class of '82 website.
Jim Demarest also set up a Zoom meeting to provide interested class members an overview of Steve Phillis' combat heroics and the basis for upgrading his Silver Star, explain the valor award upgrade process, and answer any questions before committee assignments and taskings are made.
Here are the details:
Class of 1982 Steve Phillis MOH Zoom Meeting
Wednesday, June 23rd, 8pm EDT