Ellsworth Airman found dead in off base home

Published Dec. 2, 2010
By 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

ELLSWORTH AFB, S.D. -- Staff Sgt. Ira Kaur, assigned to the Air Force Financial Services Center here, was found dead in his off-base residence, Nov. 28.

Sergeant Kaur, a military pay technician stationed at Ellsworth 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, 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."

Lt. Col. Christine Wasdin, commander of the AFFSC, echoed Col. Taliaferro's comments and added that Sergeant Kaur's loss will felt by his friends and colleagues.

"Staff Sgt. Kaur was a cheerful and energetic Airman," said Col. Wasdin. "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 at the Black Hills Chapel, Dec. 3 at 1 p.m. Colonel Taliaferro has directed that flags on Ellsworth be flown at half staff until the completion of the service.

The Pennington County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation surrounding the death, in cooperation with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations.