In Memoriam

The U.S. flag at Scott Harpe Complex on Columbus Air Force Base flew at half-staff Thursday in memory of the two pilots lost in Wednesday's T-38C crash on base. Maj. Blair Faulkner and 2nd Lt. Matthew Emmons died when the plane they were piloting crashed on initial takeoff about 12:30 p.m. April 23. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman John Parie)

Two pilots dead in T-38C crash at Columbus AFB

The T-38 Talon is a twin-engine, high-altitude, supersonic jet trainer used in a variety of roles because of its design, economy of operations, ease of maintenance, high performance and exceptional safety record. It is used primarily by Air Education and Training Command for undergraduate pilot and pilot instructor training. Air Combat Command, Air Mobility Command and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration also use the T-38 in various roles. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Steve Thurow)

Air Force identifies pilots killed in Columbus crash

Published April 24, 2008
14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs

COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Base officials identified the two pilots killed Wednesday in a T-38C crash on base.

Major Blair Faulkner, 43rd Flying Training Squadron instructor pilot, and 2nd Lt. Matthew Emmons, Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training class 08-14, died when their aircraft crashed on initial takeoff at about 12:30 p.m. April 23.

"This is a difficult time for the (Columbus) team," said Col. David Gerber, 14th Flying Training Wing commander. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and squadrons of the pilots."

The last Columbus AFB aircraft-related fatality was 24 years ago, when two T-38s collided March 21, 1984. Three people died in that incident.

A board of officers will investigate the incident.