11/15/2010 - ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. (AFNS) -- A staff sergeant assigned to the 97th Communications Squadron here but deployed as a member of a Provincial Reconstruction Team in Nuristan, Afghanistan, was pronounced dead at approximately 11 a.m. Nov. 12.
Staff Sgt. Andrew S. Bubacz passed away after sustaining head injuries while maintaining a communications tower at a forward operating base in Afghanistan.
Emergency crews responded and Sergeant Bubacz was transported to the hospital at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, where he was pronounced dead. The investigation into the cause of his death is ongoing.
"My heartfelt condolences go out to Sergeant Bubacz's family, as well as to all of his friends and co-workers here at the Mighty 97th," said Col. Ty Thomas, the 97th Air Mobility Wing commander. "This is a sad day for us. Andrew was a great Airman and we will miss him dearly."
Flags at the base will remain at half-staff in honor of Sergeant Bubacz until memorial services are complete. Detailed information regarding memorial services and where to send contributions in his memory will be released as it becomes available.
(Courtesy of the 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs Office)
Comments
11/23/2010 11:34:00 PM ET I was very sad to see yet another briefing at work involving the passing of fellow military members and SSgt Bubacz was mentioned in said briefing yesterday. We had his picture up on the big projection screen amongst the others and we all stood at attention quietly. I will never get used to this recurring briefing at my workcenter no matter how many more months I am here. My condolences to his family and friends. Peace to all.
MSgt H, overseas
11/16/2010 1:10:18 PM ET Heres a toast...
Analyst, Barksdale
11/16/2010 10:55:17 AM ET This is truly tragic. Our thoughts and prayers go out to SSgt Bubacz's family friends and co-workers. May he rest in peace.
CMSgt W--Retired, Tennessee Valley
11/16/2010 9:58:07 AM ET I used to be assigned to the 97th MXS before they took out military maintenance. It's sad to hear about a loss with my former base.
