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Shaw pilot identified in Afghanistan crash

  • Published
  • By Capt. Ann Blodzinski
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Air Force officials have confirmed a Shaw AFB F-16 Fighting Falcon pilot was killed April 3, after his aircraft crashed in Afghanistan returning to base from a close air support mission.

The pilot, Capt. James Steel, 29, from the 77th Fighter Squadron here, graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 2006, completed pilot training and arrived at Shaw in June 2010. He was the chief of mobility for the 77th FS here.

"Our condolences and prayers are with the family, friends and squadron members of Capt. Steel," said Col. Clay Hall, 20th Fighter Wing commander. "This is a difficult time for Shaw AFB, but we are focused on taking care of the Steel family, our Airmen and continuing to execute the mission."

The accident is currently under investigation; more details will be released as they become available.

Note: All media inquiries should be directed to Capt. Ann Blodzinski, 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs officer at (803) 895-2019 or Ann.Blodzinski@shaw.af.mil.