US Air Force legend Robert “Bob” Pardo, known for his selfless action known as "Pardo's Push" during the Vietnam War, has died at the age of 89 in College Station, Texas. Pardo's Push was an unorthodox maneuver that Pardo executed to save the lives of his fellow airmen during a bombing mission in 1967. The incident occurred on March 10, 1967, when Pardo, then a US Air Force captain, and weapons officer 1st Lt. Steve Wayne were deep in enemy territory on a bombing run in Vietnam. They were flying alongside another F-4C Phantom airplane, piloted by Capt. Earl Aman and 1st Lt. Robert Houghton, with the objective of destroying North Vietnam's only steel mill, heavily fortified with anti-aircraft guns and artillery.

During the mission, both aircraft came under heavy enemy fire, damaging Pardo's and Aman's Phantoms. Aman's airplane was hit again and lost too much fuel to safely return to base. Realizing that his comrades would be captured if they ejected over enemy territory, Pardo made a split-second decision to save them. Using his own aircraft, Pardo pushed Aman's jet by positioning the nose of his plane against Aman's tailhook, a retractable hook on the underside of the plane used for landing. This unorthodox maneuver allowed Pardo to guide the damaged aircraft back into friendly territory. Both aircrews then safely ejected over the Laotian border and were rescued by friendly forces.

Pardo's heroic actions were met with reprimand from Lt. Gen. William Wallace “Spike” Momyer, commander of the 7th Air Force in Vietnam, who believed that Pardo had sacrificed his multimillion-dollar jet in the rescue. Pardo faced a possible court-martial, but he was ultimately saved from punitive actions by his wing commander, Col. Robin Olds. Despite the reprimand, Pardo's brave act did not go unnoticed. Twenty years after the rescue, he was awarded the Silver Star, the third highest military award, for his selfless actions.

Born in Herne, Texas, in 1934, Pardo began his Air Force career in 1954 at the age of 19. He served as a fighter pilot during the Vietnam War and completed 132 flying missions. Pardo retired from the Air Force as a lieutenant colonel in 1974. Throughout his career, he earned numerous awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross with Oak Leaf Cluster, Purple Heart, Air Medal with twelve Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Meritorious Service Medal.

Pardo's legacy extends beyond his military service. His son, John Pardo, described him as a man of outstanding character, unparalleled principles, and a deep love for his country. He emphasized that Pardo's act of helping his fellow airmen is a powerful example of how one person can save another's life. Pardo's Push, as the maneuver is now known, is a testament to his bravery and unwavering commitment to his comrades.

The death of Robert “Bob” Pardo is a loss to the Air Force community and the nation as a whole. His selflessness and courage will be remembered as a shining example of heroism. Pardo's Push, a maneuver that has gone down in aviation history, serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military. As his son aptly stated, "His character was one of outstanding individuals, his principles were unparalleled, and his love for his country was utmost in his mind.".