Captain Lacie Hester First Woman in Air Force History to Be Awarded Silver Star

In a historic ceremony on November 12, 2024, at Royal Air Force Lakenheath in England, Captain Lacie “Sonic” Hester became the first woman in U.S. Air Force history to receive the Silver Star, the nation’s third-highest military decoration for valor in combat. This prestigious award was bestowed upon her for her exceptional bravery during a massive Iranian missile and drone assault on Israel in April 2024.

The Mission

On the night of April 13, 2024, Iran launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, firing over 300 ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and one-way attack drones. This assault was in retaliation for an Israeli missile strike in Damascus that had killed a top Iranian commander. The scale and intensity of the attack marked it as the largest air-to-air enemy engagement involving U.S. forces in over five decades.

Captain Hester’s Role

Captain Hester, serving as an F-15E Strike Eagle weapon systems officer with the 494th Fighter Squadron, played a pivotal role in countering the assault. Alongside her pilot, Major Benjamin “Irish” Coffey, she engaged multiple enemy drones and missiles, demonstrating exceptional skill and composure under fire. The duo’s aircraft was among those that intercepted over 80 Iranian drones, contributing significantly to the defense of Israeli airspace.

Captain Hester and her pilot intercepted six drones flying at low altitudes in darkness during their first flight. After a brief return to base due to a missile malfunction, they embarked on a second flight despite ongoing attacks. The pair fired all of their available weapons and continued to direct other fighter jets into the area.

During the engagement, after expending all their air-to-air missiles, Hester and Coffey continued the fight using the aircraft’s Gatling gun to down low-altitude drones in complete darkness. Their actions were instrumental in neutralizing the aerial threat and protecting critical infrastructure.

Historic Recognition

The Silver Star was awarded to Captain Hester in recognition of her gallantry in action. This honor not only marks a personal achievement but also signifies a milestone for women in the Air Force.

Hester is the first female airman to receive the Silver Star and only the 10th woman in the Department of Defense’s history to be so honored.

Major Coffey, her pilot during the mission, was also awarded the Silver Star for his valor. The ceremony at RAF Lakenheath honored a total of 30 airmen for their roles in the operation, including six Distinguished Flying Crosses with the valor device, four Distinguished Flying Crosses with the combat device, and two Bronze Stars.

Reflections on the Mission

Reflecting on the mission, Captain Hester noted the intensity of the engagement: “Although intelligence provided the numbers of how many drones we could expect to see, it was still surprising to see them all.” Her remarks underscore the unpredictable and high-stakes nature of the operation.

Major Coffey highlighted the teamwork involved, stating, “It takes a high-performing team with high-performing individuals to be able to find these things to begin with and then to engage it.” Their coordinated efforts were crucial in the successful defense against the attack.

A Milestone for Women in Combat

Captain Hester’s recognition comes at a time when the role of women in combat continues to evolve. Her achievement is a testament to the capabilities and contributions of female service members in high-stakes combat situations. As the first woman in the Air Force to receive the Silver Star, Hester’s accomplishment paves the way for future generations of women in the military.

Summation

Captain Lacie Hester’s valor during the April 2024 Iranian assault on Israel exemplifies the courage and dedication of U.S. service members. Her historic receipt of the Silver Star not only honors her personal bravery but also marks a significant milestone in the ongoing integration and recognition of women in combat roles within the U.S. military.

A total of 66 airmen from the 494th Fighter Squadron and the 494th Fighter Generation Squadron were involved in repelling the attack. Coalition forces destroyed 99% of incoming threats,  protecting the people and critical infrastructure of Israel.