Lakenheath Airman killed in Iraq

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Denise Johnson
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England (AFPN) --  A 48th Security Forces Squadron Airman was killed June 23 while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Airman 1st Class Jason D. Nathan, 22, of Macon, Ga., died in Iraq June 23 of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle while on patrol.

"It is with great sadness that I inform you of the loss of a superb Liberty Wing Airman," Brig. Gen. John Hesterman, 48th Fighter Wing commander, said in a message to the base populace. "Saturday afternoon, 23 Jun 07, Airman 1st Class Jason Nathan, a devoted security forces 'defender,' was killed in action while in service to our country."

While deployed, Airman Nathan was assigned to Detachment 6 of the 732nd Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron at Camp Speicher, Iraq. At the time of the incident, Airman Nathan was performing gunner duties with his squad in support of an Iraq Police Transition Team mission when an IED detonated and struck his vehicle.

"Airman Nathan was a superb young Airman, dedicated warrior and valued patriot who died in an effort to make Iraq safer," General Hesterman said.

He is survived by his mother, father and his 48th FW family.

"His death is a significant loss for his family, our Liberty Wing family and the United States Air Force. Our hearts go out to his family and friends during this difficult period," General Hesterman said. "His parents, squadron wingmen here and in Iraq, and countless friends across the U.S.A.F. will mourn his death. Please remember all of them in your thoughts and prayers in the days and weeks ahead."

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