12/01/2025
Air Force Lt. Col. William Parks Awarded Silver Star Medal:
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach presented the Silver Star Medal to Lt. Col. William Parks on November 26, 2025, at the Pentagon. The award recognizes Parks’ actions in early 2025 as commander of the 480th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron in the U.S. Central Command area.
During a mission involving 21 strike aircraft and four F-16 Fighting Falcons, Parks led suppression of enemy air defenses, positioning his force to cripple ballistic missile production facilities. He faced missile and anti-aircraft fire for 15 minutes, executing maneuvers while low on fuel, and coordinated emergency refueling to ensure safe return.
Wilsbach stated: “After hearing Skate’s story, his leadership, decisive action, and skill in the face of danger, I absolutely believe he deserves this honor.”
The Silver Star is the third-highest valor award; this is the 97th for the Department of the Air Force. Parks’ deployment supported operations Prosperity Guardian, Inherent Resolve, Spartan Shield, and Rough Rider, achieving 108 aerial victories.
Parks comes from a family with aviation history dating to World War II.
The Silver Star is currently awarded by all branches of the armed forces to any person who, while serving in any capacity, is cited for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force, or while serving with friendly forces against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party