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20th Fighter Wing mourns loss of Force Support Squadron Airman

  • Published
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. – – Airman First Class McKenzie C. Cooper, née Bradley, a U.S. Air Force Airman assigned to the 20th Fighter Wing, was found deceased at her off-base residence at approximately 10 a.m. on February 23, 2026.

Cooper, 20, of Trenton, T.N., enlisted in the Air Force on February 18, 2025. Cooper arrived at Shaw on June 10, 2025 where she served as a Retirements, Separations, and Promotions Technician assigned to the 20th Force Support Squadron.

“The heart of our squadron is heavy. We didn't just lose an Airman; we lost a vital part of our FSS family," said Lt. Col. Joseph A. Mitchell, 20th FSS commander. "McKenzie was someone who brought genuine warmth and spirit to our team. The empty space she leaves behind is immense, and we are all feeling this painful loss. Our thoughts, our strength, and our prayers are with her family and all who cherished McKenzie.”

Queries can be directed to the 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office at 20FWPublicAffairs@us.af.mil or 803-895-2019.

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