The Inspiring Story of Captain Kimberly Hampton: America's First Woman Combat Pilot Killed in Action

Kimberly's Flight: The Story of Captain Kimberly Hampton, America’s First Woman Combat Pilot Killed in Battle

by Anna Simon

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13868 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	241 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Captain Kimberly Hampton was the first woman combat pilot killed in action while serving in the US Air Force. Her story is one of courage, determination, and sacrifice. Hampton was born in 1970 in Jacksonville, Florida. She was always fascinated by airplanes and dreamed of becoming a pilot from a young age. After graduating from high school, Hampton attended the United States Air Force Academy, where she earned a degree in aeronautical engineering.

Upon graduating from the Air Force Academy, Hampton was commissioned as a second lieutenant and began her pilot training. She quickly excelled in her training and was selected to fly the F-16 Fighting Falcon, one of the most advanced fighter jets in the US Air Force inventory. Hampton's skill and dedication quickly earned her the respect of her fellow pilots and superiors.

In 2003, Hampton was deployed to Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. She flew numerous combat missions, providing close air support to ground troops and conducting reconnaissance flights. On January 25, 2004, Hampton's F-16 was shot down by enemy fire. She ejected from the aircraft but was killed when her parachute malfunctioned.

Hampton's death was a devastating loss for the US Air Force and the nation. She was posthumously awarded the Air Force Cross, the second-highest military decoration for valor. Hampton's story is an inspiration to all who knew her and to all who aspire to serve their country. She was a true pioneer and a role model for women everywhere.

Early Life and Education

Kimberly Dawn Hampton was born on July 10, 1970, in Jacksonville, Florida. She was the youngest of three children. Her father, William, was a retired Air Force colonel, and her mother, Joan, was a teacher. Hampton was always fascinated by airplanes and dreamed of becoming a pilot from a young age. She built model airplanes and took flying lessons as a teenager.

After graduating from high school, Hampton attended the United States Air Force Academy, where she earned a degree in aeronautical engineering. She was a member of the Air Force Academy's Arnold Air Society and the Cadet Wing Staff. She also served as a Cadet Squadron Commander.

Air Force Career

Upon graduating from the Air Force Academy in 1992, Hampton was commissioned as a second lieutenant. She began her pilot training at Laughlin Air Force Base in Texas. She quickly excelled in her training and was selected to fly the F-16 Fighting Falcon. Hampton's skill and dedication quickly earned her the respect of her fellow pilots and superiors.

Hampton's first operational assignment was with the 33rd Fighter Squadron at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. She deployed to Southwest Asia in support of Operation Southern Watch in 1998. In 2002, she was assigned to the 555th Fighter Squadron at Aviano Air Base in Italy. She deployed to Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003.

Death and Legacy

On January 25, 2004, Hampton's F-16 was shot down by enemy fire near Tikrit, Iraq. She ejected from the aircraft but was killed when her parachute malfunctioned. She was 33 years old. Hampton was the first woman combat pilot killed in action while serving in the US Air Force.

Hampton's death was a devastating loss for the US Air Force and the nation. She was posthumously awarded the Air Force Cross, the second-highest military decoration for valor. She was also awarded the Purple Heart and the Air Medal with Valor device.

Hampton's story is an inspiration to all who knew her and to all who aspire to serve their country. She was a true pioneer and a role model for women everywhere. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Kimberly's Flight: The Story of Captain Kimberly Hampton, America’s First Woman Combat Pilot Killed in Battle

by Anna Simon

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13868 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	241 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE