Deployed Ellsworth Airman dies in Southwest Asia

Published May 1, 2008
28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- The Department of Defense announced April 29 the death of an Ellsworth Airman who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Senior Airman Jonathan Yelner died near Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when he encountered an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 28th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Ellsworth Air Force Base, S.D. Airman Yelner was serving with the 755th Air Expeditionary Wing at Bagram Air Base.

"My most sincere condolences go out to the family of our lost servicemember," said Col. Scott Vander Hamm, 28th Bomb Wing commander. "Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected and impacted by Airman Yelner's death."

Airmen in need of grief counseling may utilize chapel services at (605) 385-1598 or the Airman and Family Readiness Center at (605) 385-4663.

For more information, call 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs at (605) 385-5056 or via e-mail at 28bw.pa@ellsworth.af.mil.