Gale Winston "Buck" Cleven (December 27, 1918 – November 17, 2006) was an American pilot who served with the 100th Bomb Group of the United States Army Air Forces during World War II.

[1][2] Gale Cleven was born on December 27, 1918, in Lemmon, South Dakota, before the family moved to Wyoming for his father to work in the oil fields.

During his time at the University of Wyoming he studied mathematics on a full academic scholarship and was a council member for Phi Delta Theta.

[4] While in the military Cleven held positions in management in data processing divisions of the Atomic Energy Commission, US Air Force, and the Office of Defense.

[16] His awards include: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Major (Air Corps) Gale Winston Cleven, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-17 Heavy Bomber in the 350th Bombardment Squadron, 100th Bombardment Group (H), Eighth Air Force, while participating in a bombing mission on 17 August 1943, against enemy ground targets in Bremen, Germany.

The extraordinary heroism, coolness, and skill displayed by Major Cleven on this occasion reflected the greatest credit upon himself and inspired the members of his command.