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Pilots in fatal T-38 Talon mishap at Vance identified

  • Published
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs

VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. – Two Vance Air Force Base Airmen were killed on Nov. 21 at approximately 9:10 a.m. during a T-38C Talon training mission.

 

Deceased is Lt. Col. John “Matt” Kincade, 47, an instructor pilot assigned to the 5th Flying Training Squadron. He is survived by his wife and two sons.

 

Also deceased is 2nd Lt. Travis B. Wilkie, 23, a student pilot assigned to the 71st Student Squadron. He is survived by his wife, parents and sister.

               

Two T-38 aircraft were performing a formation training mission when the incident occurred during the landing phase.  Vance emergency response personnel responded to the scene to treat casualties and assist in recovery efforts.

 

“We are a close-knit family,” Col. Corey Simmons said, 71st Flying Training Wing commander, “and when tragedies like this occur, every member of the U.S. military, Vance, Enid, feels it.”

 

An investigation is currently underway.

 

Additional details will be provided as information becomes available.