12/3/2010 - ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. (AFNS) -- An Airman assigned to the Air Force Financial Services Center here was found dead in his off-base residence Nov. 28.
Staff Sgt. Ira Kaur, a military pay technician stationed here since August 2007, died from apparent gunshot wounds.
"We mourn the loss of a valued member of Team Ellsworth and extend our deepest condolences to Sergeant Kaur's family and friends," said Col. Jeffrey Taliaferro, the 28th Bomb Wing commander. "We consider every Airman a valued national resource, and Sergeant Kaur will be deeply missed. Our focus now is on helping his family and friends during this difficult time, and assisting with the investigation into his death."
Col. Christine Wasdin, the commander of the AFFSC, echoed Colonel Taliaferro's comments and added that Sergeant Kaur's loss will be felt by his friends and colleagues.
"Staff Sgt. Kaur was a cheerful and energetic Airman," Colonel Wasdin said. "He has been a part of the AFFSC family since we stood up in 2007, and was key to smooth operations behind the scenes. He was beloved by many and will be sorely missed."
A memorial service for Sergeant Kaur will be held Dec. 3.
The Pennington County, S.D., sheriff's office is leading the investigation surrounding Sergeant Kear's death, in cooperation with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations.
