Four Airmen from Dyess Air Force Base Lose Their Lives in C-130J Crash

DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas – Four Airmen assigned to the 317^th Airlift Group at Dyess Air Force Base lost their lives in the C-130J crash that occurred in Afghanistan on Oct. 2 at 12:19 local time when the aircraft crashed during initial take-off from Jalalabad Airfield, stated a 7^th Bomb Wing Public Affairs press release Friday.

The press release also stated that the names of the Airmen are being withheld for 24 hours until families have been notified. Overall, six U.S. service members and five civilians died in the crash, and the deceased from the 317^th AG included an aircrew of two C-130J pilots and two loadmasters.

“The death of these Airmen, who died in service to our country, is a profound loss,” said Col. Michael Bob Starr, 7^th Bomb Wing commander. “The sadness and shock of this tragedy can be felt across the entire Dyess community, and our hearts and prayers go out to our brothers and sisters in the 317^th AG. We are extending every available resource to comfort and care for the family and friends of our fallen heroes.”

Col. Stephen Hodge, 317^th AG Commander said this is a deeply emotional time for everyone in the 317^th Airlift Group.

“The friendship and camaraderie in the Herk community, especially among our Dyess and Abilene friends is unlike any other,” Col. Hodge added. “These Airmen and their loved ones are our family and we will continue to take care of them.”

In a press conference Friday afternoon, Col. Hodge said C-130 training is temporarily postponed so personnel have time to grieve for the loss of the four Airmen. 

At this time, the cause of the accident is currently under investigation by officials in the Central Command Area of Responsibility, and more information will be released as it becomes available.