Bob Pardo was an aviator and military fighter pilot whose efforts to get his wingman’s heavily damaged Phantom fighter jet out of enemy airspace over Vietnam became known as Pardo’s Push.
- Died: December 5, 2023 (Who else died on December 5?)
- Details of death: Died at the age of 89.
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Bob Pardo’s legacy
Born in Waco, Texas, Pardo enlisted in 1954 and by the following year had earned his pilot wings with the U.S. Air Force. He had several assignments flying many types of aircraft before being called to serve in combat during the Vietnam War. In 1966 and 1967, he flew an F-4 Phantom II, the aircraft that would make him a legend.
On March 10, 1967 – his birthday – Pardo’s fighter was hit by enemy anti-aircraft fire. His wingman, Capt. Earl Aman, was even more damaged and was leaking fuel. Pardo’s jet had enough fuel to make it to safety, but Aman’s did not. Aman’s aircraft was on fire while still over enemy airspace. Rather than leave him behind, Pardo positioned his fighter behind Aman’s and used it to gently shove the jet out of the combat zone. Once over Laos, they both ejected to safety. The risky maneuver has come to be known as Pardo’s Push.
Pardo was initially reprimanded for not saving his own aircraft, but he was later awarded a Silver Star for his effort. His commendation notes that “[b]y his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Pardo has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.” Even after retirement, Pardo stuck by his wingman, forming the Earl Aman Foundation to help Aman raise money for medical bills.
Notable quote
“I couldn’t see leaving a guy I’d just fought a battle with.”—from a 2017 interview with Air & Space magazine
Tributes to Bob Pardo
Full obituary: The Aviationist
