Pilot dies in crash

Published Feb. 21, 2008

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- One of the pilots involved in the crash of two F-15C Eagles assigned to the 33rd Fighter Wing here has died. The other pilot is listed in good condition at Eglin's hospital.

"The 33rd FW Nomads and Team Eglin have suffered a great loss today and my heart goes out to the family and friends of our fallen Airman," said Col. Todd Harmer, 33rd FW commander. "We will continue to do everything we can to assist our families and Airmen at this tragic time."

At approximately 5 p.m. Wednesday, Coast Guard crews located and rescued the aircrew from the 58th Fighter Squadron after the pilots were reported missing over the Gulf of Mexico at approximately 2 p.m.

The names of the two pilots are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
A board of officers will investigate the accident.

Additional details will be provided as soon as they become available.