Airman killed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom

Airman 1st Class Jason Nathan was killed in Iraq Saturday while assigned to the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing. Airman Nathan was a member of the 48th Security Forces Squadron, RAF Lakenheath. (Photo courtesy of 48th Security Forces Squadron)

by Tech. Sgt Denise Johnson
48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

https://www.lakenheath.af.mil/news/story_print.htm?id=123058421

6/25/2007 - ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATUY, England -- A 48th Security Forces Squadron member was killed Saturday while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Airman 1st Class Jason D. Nathan, 22, of Macon, Ga., died June 23, in Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle while on patrol.

"It is with great sadness that I inform you of the loss of a superb Liberty Wing Airman," Brig. Gen. John Hesterman, 48th Fighter Wing commander, said in a message to the base populace today. "Saturday afternoon, 23 Jun 07, Airman 1st Class Jason Nathan, a devoted [U.S. Air Force] security forces 'defender,' was killed in action while in service to our country."

While deployed, Airman Nathan was assigned to the 732nd Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron Detachment 6, 732nd Air Expeditionary Group, 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing, at Camp Speicher, Iraq. At the time of the incident, Airman Nathan was performing gunner duties with his squad in support of a very difficult Iraq Police Transition Team mission when an IED detonated and struck his vehicle.

"Airman Nathan was a superb young Airman, dedicated warrior and valued patriot who died in an effort to make Iraq safer," General Hesterman said.

He is survived by his mother, father and his 48th FW family.

"His death is a significant loss for his family, our Liberty Wing family and the United States Air Force. Our hearts go out to his family and friends during this difficult period," General Hesterman said. "His parents, squadron wingmen here and in Iraq, and countless friends across the USAF will mourn his death. Please remember all of them in your thoughts and prayers in the days and weeks ahead."

The 48th FW will conduct a Memorial Ceremony 10 a.m. Friday in Hangar 6. Anyone wishing to attend the service must comply with entry regulations per RAF Lakenheath guidance.

For more information contact the 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office at 226-2151.