Cause Of The Mishap Is Under Investigation

The members involved in the T-38 Talon accident from Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, on Nov. 20, 2017 have been identified.

The deceased, Capt. Paul J. Barbour, 32, was the air crew flight equipment flight commander with the 47th Operations Support Squadron and an instructor pilot with the 87th Flying Training Squadron. He was from Van Nuys, California, and is survived by his spouse, mother, father and sister.

Injured was Capt. Joshua Hammervold, instructor pilot for the 87th FTS. He was transported to Val Verde Regional Medical Center where he was treated for his injuries. He was released Nov. 21 and is in good condition.

“Tragic events like this are difficult for everyone – family, friends, co-workers, supervisors and our entire Air Force,” said Col. Charlie Velino, 47th Flying Training Wing commander. “Every day, our pilots take a risk as they step into the cockpit, and every day they operate with the utmost skill, professionalism and dedication to train the next generation of flying Airmen and to ensure the safety of this great nation.”

The crash occurred Nov. 20 at around 4 p.m. approximately 14 miles northwest of the base near Spur 454 and U.S. 90 in Del Rio, Texas.

The cause of the accident is under investigation.

“Rest assured, we are doing everything we can to support the investigation and prevent future incidents,” said Velino.

(Source: USAF news release. Image from file. Not accident airplane)

FMI: www.af.mil