Wisconsin Pilot Who Died In F-16 Crash In Michigan Is Identified

The Wisconsin Air National Guard 115th Fighter Wing has confirmed the identity of the pilot who died in an F-16 crash in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan this week.

Capt. Durwood “Hawk” Jones is survived by his wife and two young children.

Jones, 37, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, was remembered as a decorated combat veteran who deployed to Japan in 2015, to Korea in 2017, and to Afghanistan in 2019. He joined the Air National Guard in 2011 and graduated from F-16 basic qualification training in 2015, according to the 115th Fighter Wing.

Jones, a 2005 Northwestern University grad, was also awarded two Air Medals with combat ‘C’ devices as someone who had been “personally exposed to hostile action or under significant risk of hostile action,” the 115th Fighter Wing added.

The crash happened in the Hiawatha National Forest in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan on Tuesday (December 8) around 8 p.m., prompting an “exhaustive” multi-agency search. Authorities found Jones dead Thursday (December 10). He was the only occupant of the aircraft.

“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. “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.”

Van Roo explained Friday morning (December 11), before Jones’ identity was released, that the ongoing U.S. Air Force investigation “is a deliberate, three-phase process.” It will examine pre-flight activities, maintenance, aircraft integrity, pilot briefings and training.

The first phase is expected to take about a week, the second is expected to take about 30 days, and the third could take up to a year or more to report the full, comprehensive conclusions, Van Roo said.

“Our dedication to duty and the training that is required of this job develops a bond that is like no other,” Van Roo said Friday morning. “The loss of a member like this is a very difficult thing for such a committed group of professionals.”

He asked for respect for the family’s privacy as they grieve, which the 115th Fighter Wing reiterated when identifying Jones on Friday afternoon.

“The family asked to convey their gratitude for the incredible outpouring of love and support from the community,” a press release from the 115th Fighter Wing reads. “Out of respect for the family’s wishes, they have asked for privacy during this difficult time, and will not be granting interview requests.”

Photos: 115th Fighter Wing