Air Force, community support Airman following surgical complications Published July 23, 2009 SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AFNS) -- A 9th Intelligence Squadron Airman assigned to Beale Air Force Base, Calif., is hospitalized at the University of California Davis Medical Center. Airman 1st Class Colton Read is being treated there following complications from a July 9 surgery at the David Grant Medical Center at Travis Air Force Base, Calif., that resulted in the tragic amputation of both legs. The incident is currently under intense investigations. The Air Force is committed to his support, recovery and long-term care, Air Force officials said. "Airman Read and his family are in our hearts; we are humbled by his courage during this difficult time," said Maj. Gen. Bradley A. Heithold, the Air Force Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency commander. "Airman Read is part of our Air Force family, one of our own, and we will do everything in our power to ensure he and his family receive the support they need, now and down the road as he recovers." Airman Read, an intelligence imagery analyst, has been assigned two family liaison officers from his unit. FLOs serve as an advocate for wounded Airmen, provide logistical support for family members, and act as an "interpreter" for family members who may be unfamiliar with military language. He has also been assigned a Recovery Care Coordinator. RCCs facilitate the recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration of seriously wounded, ill or injured Airmen who will require long-term care. In addition to the Air Force Warrior and Survivor Care Programs managing the case, the Air Force has issued Airman Read's immediate family invitational travel orders to cover major expenses such as travel and lodging. Contributions from the 9th IS and related community support from organizations such as the First Sergeant's Council at Beale AFB, the Red Cross and Air Force Aid Society have provided Airman Read's extended family with lodging, airline and meal expenses. Base officials said plans are in place for Airman Read's short- and long-term housing once he is released from the hospital. "This incident is an emotional one for us all and our thoughts and prayers go out to Airman Read and his family during this difficult time," said Col. James Vechery, the 60th Air Mobility Wing commander. "We have begun thorough investigations with experts both inside and outside of DGMC." Currently there are four ongoing investigations of this incident - three medical and one command-directed. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 prohibits release of specific information surrounding the case.