Captain Smokin of the 11th Bomb Group fought gallantly in every mission in the Kurland Campaign in 2009, on both sides of the conflict and against superior numbers of enemy. Captain Smokin's actions in this conflict are in the highest standards of the =AVG= and the United States Army Air Force, and a tribute to his Squadron and Group.
Aside from combat readiness, Captain Smokin displayed a high degree of initiative in volunteering for solo heavy bomber missions in spite of recurring technical difficulties. His initiative contributed greatly to the Blue Team in this campaign, and was inspirational to all =AVG= pilots.
