Governor Kathy Hochul has directed all state government buildings and facilities to fly flags at half-staff today and Thursday in honor of US Air Force Chief of Staff Sergeant John Johnson. Corey Wade.
Wade, 33, from Shortville, Ontario, was found dead days after being reported missing while training in Arizona.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Sgt. “This tragedy is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks the brave men and women of our military face every day to keep us safe.”
Wade, a medical logistics aviator with the 48th Rescue Squadron, was stationed at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona. His body was found on June 17 after several days of search and rescue operations led by the Gila County Sheriff’s Department. Wade was reported missing on June 14.
Colonel Scott Mills, commander of the 355th Wing, described Wade as a model airman during his time with the squadron and a consummate professional.
“We are sad to confirm the death of Staff Sergeant. Mr. Cory Wade’s body was found following an exhaustive search on Lake Roosevelt,” said Colonel Mills. “Sergeant Wade was an exemplary airman and consummate professional during his time with the 48th Rescue Squadron and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts go out to Sergeant Wade’s family, friends, and teammates.The leaders at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base are committed to providing comfort and support to our community as we navigate this tragedy together. I am taking
Wade was reported missing around 2 p.m. on June 14, while training for Operation Jump on a lake about 130 miles north of Tucson. This prompted search and rescue operations by multiple agencies. Members of the Tonto Lim Search and Rescue, U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Navy personnel also participated in the operation.
The Air Force and the Gila County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the incident.
The cause of death has not been made public.
Wade joined the Air Force in 2008 and arrived at Tucson in April 2020, according to people familiar with the matter.
He has received several awards and decorations, including the Aerospace Commendation Medal, Aerospace Merit Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Aerospace Excellence Unit Award, National Defense Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, and United States Air Force Non Medal. – Officer Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon.
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Includes coverage from the Arizona Daily Star and (New York) Daily News via the Tribune News Service.
