USAF Announces Death Of Airman During Deployment
We’ve got some somber news to share today about an airman from the 27th Special Operations Logistics Readiness Squadron who tragically lost his life on Thursday, August 15, in what’s being described as a “non-combat related incident.”
The U.S. Air Force announced the death of Staff Sgt. Tristen Wright on Saturday, August 17, but provided very few details about the circumstances surrounding his passing, as the incident is currently under investigation.
Staff Sgt. Tristen Wright was just 28 years old and served as a materiel management specialist with the 27th SOLRS. He was deployed as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the ongoing mission aimed at combating the remnants of ISIS in Iraq and Syria.
While the specific location of his death remains undisclosed, the impact of his loss is already being felt deeply within his squadron and the broader Air Force community.
Maj. Brent Escay, commander of the 27th SOLRS, spoke highly of Wright, describing him as a “force for good” who took his role as a leader and mentor very seriously. According to Escay, Wright was not only a dedicated supervisor but also an active volunteer in the local community. His infectious smile, as Maj. Escay noted, could light up any room, making his absence all the more profound for those who knew and worked alongside him.
Wright had been a member of the Air Force since August 2016, and before his current assignment, he served in Japan with the 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron at Kadena Air Force Base. His service record is a testament to his dedication and bravery, including previous deployments in both Operation Inherent Resolve and Resolute Support.
Among the honors he earned are the U.S. Air and Space Force Commendation Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Medal.
Although the ongoing fight against ISIS involves active combat operations, it’s important to remember that non-combat incidents still pose a significant risk to our service members. Earlier this month, for example, two National Guard soldiers also lost their lives in Iraq in separate incidents away from the battlefield.