Pilot dies after U-2 Dragon Lady crashes in Southwest Asia

  • Published
The pilot of an Air Force U-2 Dragon Lady died when his plane crashed at a forward-deployed location here in the early hours of June 22.

The pilot completed flying a mission supporting Operation Enduring Freedom and was returning to base when the crash occurred. His name is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. He was assigned to the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing.

The cause of the crash is not known.

“The Airmen of the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing mourn the loss of a true American hero in the service of his country,” said Col. Darryl Burke, 380th AEW commander.

Colonel Burke appointed an interim investigation board, and a full investigation board will convene to continue the investigation.

The site of the crash has been secured to ensure the safety of local citizens and the integrity of the site for investigation team members.