Airmen killed in C-17 crash identified

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JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska (AFNS) --  Maj. Michael Freyholtz, 34, from Hines, Minn., and Maj. Aaron Malone, 36, from Anchorage, Alaska, both pilots assigned to the Alaska Air National Guard's 249th Airlift Squadron; Capt. Jeffrey Hill, 31, from York, Pa., a pilot assigned to Elmendorf's 517th Airlift Squadron; and Master Sgt. Thomas Cicardo, 47, from Anchorage; 249th Airlift Squadron loadmaster, were killed in the C-17 crash here July 28.

"We come to work with immense sorrow after four of our fellow Airmen lost their lives in the C-17 crash at Elmendorf Air Force Base Wednesday," said Brig. Gen. Charles E. Foster, the 176th Wing commander, Alaska Air National Guard. "They were more than valued Airmen. They were our teammates, friends, family members and fellow Alaskans. We mourn their loss and share the deep sadness of their families."

"These fallen warriors embody the pride and professionalism of American Airmen," said Col. John McMullen, the 3rd Wing commander at Elmendorf AFB, Alaska. "They selflessly served their country and will be sorely missed by our entire (Elmendorf AFB total force) family."

A board of officers is investigating the accident.