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Team Shaw lowers flag to half-mast in honor of Capt. James Steel

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Daniel Blackwell
  • 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.

At 12:00 pm April 5, 2013, three Team Shaw members lowered the flag to half-mast to honor Capt. James Steel, 29, 77th Fighter Squadron chief of mobility.

"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.