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Garamendi Statement on U-2 Crash in Sutter Buttes

September 20, 2016

Today, Congressman John Garamendi issued the following statement.

“At approximately 9:05am this morning, a TU-2S Dragon Lady assigned to the 1st Reconnaissance Squadron based at Beale Air Force Base crashed in the Sutter Buttes during a training mission.

“I want to express my deepest condolences to the family of the pilot who was killed, and my thoughts are with the pilot who sustained injuries in the crash. I also want to thank the first responders who arrived so quickly at the scene to assist in recovering the pilots.

“Though our wars and military operations may be thousands of miles from home, the Airmen of Beale Air Force Base are on the front line everyday providing the intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and analysis which are critical to keeping our homeland safe. Even in training, these missions are dangerous and we are all thankful for the selfless sacrifice of all of our servicemembers. I know that I join with the entire 3rd District of California in offering our thoughts and prayers to the Beale community, our Airmen, and their families today and in the days ahead.”