Remains of missing Airman in Guam confirmed

By Air Force News Service, / Published December 08, 2014

BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. (AFNS) -- Leadership from the 2nd Bomb Wing confirmed the loss of Airman Alec Dye during a press briefing here Dec. 6.

Dye, a crew chief from the 2nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, was deployed to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, where he was last seen at Tarague Beach on Dec 1. On Dec. 3, remains were recovered on the beach where he went missing, and were confirmed to be Dye’s on Dec. 4.

"The news is beyond sad and our team is mourning the loss of one of our own," said Col. Kristin Goodwin, the 2nd Bomb Wing commander. "As great as our pain is, though, it pales in comparison to the loss that is felt by the Dye family and all of those who loved and knew Alec, and we want to ensure that they know that we are here to help them and support them in any capacity."

Throughout the search for Dye, his unit's squadron commander and Air Force officials remained in contact with his family. On Barksdale AFB, chaplains and base mental health professionals provided support to those impacted by his loss.

While relatively new to the wing, Dye was well-regarded within the 2nd AMXS.

"Alec was an outstanding young Airman, and a B-52H Stratofortress crew chief," said Lt. Col. Michael Hammack, the 2nd AMXS commander. "He was progressing well in his upgrade training and was well on his way to becoming an outstanding aircraft maintainer. Alec was known for his eagerness to learn, his willingness to take on the toughest tasks, and his enthusiasm for his job as a B-52 mechanic. His bright personality and service to his country will have a lasting impact on us all."

Throughout the near week-long search for Dye, a variety of Guam-based agencies were engaged in the recovery efforts, to include: the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, Guam Police Department and Guam Fire Rescue. This level of support was not lost on 2nd Bomb Wing leadership.

"We want to express our gratitude to the more than 180 Guam individuals, both federal and local agencies, who were involved in the search and recovery efforts for Alec," Goodwin said. "Their determination validates what we all know - that the life of every Airman is a precious thing."