The gate at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. (U.S. Air Force)
(Tribune News Service) — Kirtland Air Force Base has announced that Me’lik Etienne was the airman found dead near Lion’s Beach Campground at Elephant Butte Lake on Monday.
Etienne, 22, who was assigned to the 351st Special Warfare Training Squadron at Kirtland, drowned the evening May 24, Kirtland said in a news release. Alcohol was not involved in the incident.
Etienne is survived by his wife, parents and sister. He had been married for two weeks before his death and recently received recognition from the deputy commander of Air Education and Training Command, Maj. Gen. Clark Quinn, for his outstanding performance, according to a Kirtland news release.
The 351st Special Warfare Training Squadron leadership is escorting Airman 1st Class Etienne’s dignified transfer to Kirtland Air Force Base.
The incident remains under investigation.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of Me’lik,” Col. Nathan T. Colunga, Special Warfare Training Wing commander, said in a news release. “He was a bright spot in the squadron and embodied the energy, dedication and selflessness that defines this unit. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.”
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