An Air Force sergeant was found dead in Arizona on Saturday after he went missing on Wednesday.
U.S. Air Force Sgt. Kory Wade, 33, went missing on Wednesday during a training exercise. Officials revealed that Wade, a 48th Rescue Squadron medical logistics airman at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, was training in preparation for supporting jump operations. According to his base, Wade went missing at about 2 p.m. local time.
Davis-Monthan U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Kory Wade was found dead yesterday after a multi-day search and rescue operation.
Wade was reported missing at Roosevelt Lake on June 14, while conducting training in preparation for supporting jump operations.https://t.co/FgcoOSCEmf
— Ryan Shead (@RyanShead) June 19, 2023
The 33-year-old’s base revealed that multiple agencies, including the Gila County Sheriff’s Office, Tonto Rim Search and Rescue, the U.S. Border Patrol, the Air Force and the Navy participated in an “exhaustive search” to find the sergeant.
Each and every day our men & women in uniform put their lives on the line for our country. Their sacrifice is a debt we can never repay.
Laura & I are praying for Staff Sgt. Kory Wade’s friends, family & loved ones. https://t.co/z1XbPXl7XV
— Congressman Juan Ciscomani (@RepCiscomani) June 19, 2023
Despite the multiagency’s best efforts, Wade was found dead on Saturday. Col. Scott Mills, the 355th Wing commander at the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, confirmed the news in a statement.
“We are saddened to confirm the death of Staff Sgt. Kory Wade, whose body was located following an exhaustive search at Roosevelt Lake,” Col. Mills said. “Sergeant Wade was a model Airman and consummate professional while assigned to the 48th Rescue Squadron and he will be deeply missed. Our thoughts are with Sergeant Wade’s family, friends and teammates during this difficult time. Davis-Monthan Air Force Base leaders are postured to provide comfort and assistance to our community as we navigate this tragedy together.”
Forever grateful for U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Kory Wade’s service and sacrifice. Praying for his family and friends. May he Rest In Peace 🇺🇸 @DMAFB https://t.co/KIzopMaJ2C
— Juan Ciscomani (@JuanCiscomani) June 19, 2023
According to NBC News, Wade joined the Air Force and entered on Nov. 18, 2008. The 33-year-old has been stationed at Davis-Monthan since April 2020.
Wade was awarded several recommendations, including Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award, National Defense Service Ribbon, Air and Space Commendation Medal, Air and Space Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Air Force Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Military Ribbon.
Wade’s base did not reveal the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. The base did not also say if foul play was suspected in the 33-year-old’s death. However, the Gila County Sheriff’s Office revealed that the incident was under investigation.
