KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- For our Fallen Warrior commemoration this week, we remember Biloxi native 1st Lt. Robert Gaudé, 430th Fighter Bomber Squadron pilot.
Gaudé commissioned in June 1951 and completed pilot training at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona in December 1952 and was assigned to fly the F-84 Thunderjet. During his time, Gaudé completed 38 combat missions over North Korea in support of the Korean War.
On July 10, 1953 he was killed in action while on a bomb run over a road bridge south of Kuni-ri, North Korea. His remains have not yet been recovered.
Gaudé earned multiple awards and decorations during his career and Keesler’s bowling alley, Gaudé Lanes is named in his honor.
Editor's note: The Fallen Warrior series highlights Fallen Warriors who exemplify our core values and paid the ultimate sacrifice. Take a moment to honor this week’s hero.