Deployed Ellsworth Airman dies

An Air Force member assigned to the 28th Communications Squadron died March 16, due to a non-combat incident while deployed to the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing, Southwest Asia. Senior Airman Michael John Hinkle II, 24, of Corona, Calif., was a cyber transport systems journeyman deployed to the 386th Expeditionary Communications Squadron.

"We are deeply saddened by the loss of our fellow Airman," said Col. Jeffrey Taliaferro, 28th Bomb Wing commander. "Mike will be missed by all of us, and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends during this difficult time."

Senior Airman Hinkle joined the Air Force in December 2005, and has been stationed at Ellsworth since November 2008. Colonel Taliaferro has directed that flags on Ellsworth be flown at half staff until the completion of a planned memorial service.

The cause of death has not been determined and is currently under investigation.


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