Operations Award - MSGT Donny Nickle, USAF, U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command
This award distinguishes an AUVSI member or non-member directly involved in the testing, evaluation and/or operational deployment of unmanned systems. Through directing operations for test programs or mission accomplishments and maintenance, the recipient should have an expertise in unmanned systems hardware such as vehicles, propulsion systems, guidance/control, electro-optics and launch and support equipment.
MSgt Donny Nickle represents the Air Force Special Operations Command as a Special Tactics Combat Controller and Joint Tactical Air Controller for the United States Air Force. MSgt Nickle is a decorated airman with over 18 years of experience in the United States Air Force and United States Marine Corps. MSgt Nickle’s knowledge of application of unmanned systems in a combat scenario remains unparalleled.
During this past year, MSgt Nickle distinguished himself and contributed to the development of a unique “first-of-its-kind” Small Unmanned Aircraft System (SUAS) lethal capability. His knowledge of combat airspace, employment and systems knowledge in all Air Force SUAS uniquely qualified him to be the lead operator and test evaluator. In July 2009, MSgt Nickle tested this capability under realistic scenarios. Together with test directors, contractors, government observers, and range officials; MSgt Nickle employed the lethal SUAS navigating the system through mountains to engage simulated moving and stationary targets in realistic scenarios. His knowledge of digital links enabled him to develop combat procedures to capture data and generate updated geo-positional information to feed the SUAS. He developed procedures during the test to use the RQ-11 Raven B as a targeting tool to gather pre-strike information using electronic chat and approved targeting messaging data.
In October 2009, MSgt Nickle deployed in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM with the system for a limited operational combat assessment. During the deployment, he used the Air Force Battlefield Air Targeting Camera (BATCAM) WASP III system to conduct surveillance of known enemy positions and prepare use of the lethal system. During his deployment his team became engaged with the enemy and was under direct fire. While rules of engagement prevented him from using the system, his skills as a Combat Control NCO directly resulted in protecting his team during the engagement.
MSgt Nickle exemplifies the spirit of the Operations Award – He is employing new SUAS technology in a way to protect our forces and further the mission of the United States Air Force and the Department of Defense.