Chief Master Sergeant Michael I. Lampe Warrior ... - Sgt. Mac's Bar

AU/ACSC/8273/AY07
taxiway and got behind the B-737. Unfortunately, the Italian ATC system in Rome vectored the
T-39 through controlled airspace and they lost sight of the B-737, thus allowing Abu Abbas and
his fellow hijackers to escape without being prosecuted for their crimes. 52
Combat Controllers of Det 1 MACOS at Sigonella
Air Base with the Egyptian B-737 used to transport
the mastermind terrorist Abu Abbas out of Italy.
Pictured from left to right is Bob Martens, Rick
Caffee, Chief Lampe and Tony Snodgrass. (Picture
courtesy of Chief Lampe).
12 Outstanding Airmen of the Air Force
Chief Lampe, then a Senior Master Sergeant, was recognized as one of the Air Force’s
twelve outstanding Airmen (12 OAY) in 1986, and was the first Combat Controller ever
recognized with this prestigious honor. “The top 12 airmen were selected based on job
performance and leadership qualities; leadership in social, cultural and religious activities;
demonstrated ability as an articulate and positive representative for the Air Force; and
government or civilian awards and recognition.” 53 At the time of his selection, Lampe was a
Chief-select and the superintendent of the Combat Control Team, Det 4, NAFCOS. He was also
recognized as MAC’s Outstanding Combat Control SNCO leading up to the 12 OAY. In the
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