Bobby Gene Frost

CW3 Bobby Gene Frost was born on 12 March 1931 in Jones, Oklahoma. He was a 4-year varsity athlete in basketball and baseball in the 20-member Jones High School Class of 1950.

On 4 January 1951 Frost joined the US Air Force, became an accomplished aircraft maintenance specialist and committed to an Air Force career. During 1955-59 he and family served four years on Okinawa. In 1964 he transferred to James Connelly AFB in Waco, Texas where he served on the Maintenance Standardization Board and earned a commercial pilot’s license.

Frost changed service branches in 1966 when he transferred to the Army as a Warrant Officer to fly helicopters. He was 36 years old with 15 years Air Force experience. After pilot training, he was assigned to Vietnam where he flew UH-1 Huey Gunship support for the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment.

During Operation Kittyhawk, the Regiment was tasked with keeping roads clear of the enemy in Khanh District, east of Saigon. On 21 July 1967, during a large highway convoy ambush, Warrant Officer Frost, for his actions, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. The citation reads in part, "… [he] immediately executing a skillful firing pass… upon the attacker… eluded the … ground fire and enabled his door gunners to deliver a devastating barrage…although wounded, Frost refused to abort the mission and completed three additional passes…. Warrant Officer Frost’s extreme courage… are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Military and reflects great credit on himself…"

Frost would earn other awards during his tours to include the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and 11 Air Medals.

In September 1969, Frost returned to Vietnam. On 10 February 1970, his helicopter experienced an engine failure that ended in the death of all on board.

CW3 Frost rests in his hometown of Jones, Oklahoma.