The body of Kory Wade, an Air Force staff sergeant, was found several days after he went missing during a training exercise in Arizona.
The 33-year-old medical logistics airman was reported missing on June 14 in on Roosevelt Lake, about 80 miles northeast of Phoenix. Initial reports described him as a jet skier, but the USAF later clarified Wade was training “for supporting jump operations.”
The Gila County Sheriff’s Office led a multi-day search-and-rescue effort. Tonto Rim Search and Rescue, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy personnel also took part in the operation.
Col. Scott Mills, 355th Wing commander at the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base near Tucson, said Wade’s body was recovered on Saturday.
“We are saddened to confirm the death of Staff Sgt. Kory Wade, whose body was located following an exhaustive search at Roosevelt Lake,” Col. Mills said. “Sergeant Wade was a model Airman and consummate professional while assigned to the 48th Rescue Squadron and he will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with Sergeant Wade’s family, friends and teammates during this difficult time. Davis-Monthan Air Force Base leaders are postured to provide comfort and assistance to our community as we navigate this tragedy together.”
Wade, a Shortsville, N.Y. native, entered the Air Force in the fall of 2008 and was had been stationed at Davis-Monthan since April 2020.
During his career, he was awarded several commendations, including the Air and Space Commendation Medal, Air and Space Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award, National Defense Service Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and U.S. Air Force Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon, the USAF said.
The Air Force and Gila County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the incident.
No cause of death has been released.
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