The Wisconsin Air National Guard 115th Fighter Wing has started its airborne operations again Tuesday (December 15), a week after a fatal F-16 crash in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
Capt. Durwood “Hawk” Jones, 37, died in a crash in the Hiawatha National Forest on December 8. After an “exhaustive” multi-agency search, authorities found Jones dead on December 10. The crash happened during a routine training. The U.S. Air Force is investigating the accident.
The 115th Fighter Wing paused its operations following the crash and resumed Tuesday, according to Channel 3000.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time,” 115th Fighter Wing commander Col. Bart Van Roo said in a statement of the crash. “Today is a day for mourning, and the 115th Fighter Wing along with the entire dWisconsin National Guard stands with the pilot’s family as we grieve the loss of a great Airman, and patriot.”
Gov. Tony Evers ordered flags lower to half-staff in respect of Jones.
“Capt. Jones was a decorated combat veteran, a selfless hero serving both at home and abroad, and a caring father, husband, and son,” Evers said in a statement. “Our hearts break for his wife and kids and his family, and Kathy and I join the people of our state in offering our condolences. We will continue to keep them in our thoughts and prayers. We're thinking of all of Capt. Jones' loved ones and his fellow service members in the 115th Fighter Wing and the Wisconsin National Guard.”
Wisconsin’s Adjunct General Maj. Gen. Paul Knapp and his wife Renee also issued a statement acknowledging Jones.
“The entire Wisconsin National Guard family mourns the loss of Capt. Durwood ‘Hawk’ Jones after his tragic passing this week,” they said in a statement December 11. “Capt. Jones was a great pilot, leader, patriot, and combat veteran, who lost his life training to protect our state and nation…He was also a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend. We will cherish his memory, and honor his sacrifice, as we pray for the healing of his family and the 115th Fighter Wing community.”
Photo: 115th Fighter Wing