HURLBURT FIELD AIRMAN DIES IN OFF-BASE INCIDENT HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. – U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Roger Fortson, 23, died Friday, May 3, following an incident at his off-base residence.
Fortson, from Atlanta, Georgia, entered active duty on Nov. 19, 2019. He arrived at Hurlburt Field in March of 2020. During that time, he was assigned to the 73rd Special Operations Squadron and 4th SOS as a special missions aviator. His decorations include an Air Force Achievement Medal and Air Medal with a ‘C’ Device. The ‘C’ Device indicates service or achievement performed under combat conditions. He was deployed to Southwest Asia in mid-2023 for which he earned the Air Medal.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is the lead investigation agency in this incident. Questions relating to the investigation should be directed to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
The 1st Special Operations Wing’s focus remains on supporting Senior Airman Fortson’s family, providing necessary resources to the squadron and those impacted by this incident, and maintaining professionalism and respect at Hurlburt Field.
For those impacted by this incident and in need of support, please reach out to your nearest available helping agency.
The 1st Special Operations Wing Commander, U.S. Air Force Col. Patrick Dierig, made the following statement:
“Our focus remains on supporting Senior Airman Fortson’s family, providing necessary resources to the squadron and all members impacted, and maintaining professionalism and respect at Hurlburt Field. We respect the legal process and the family’s right to secure representation. SrA Fortson was a proven combat veteran and an incredible teammate. His loss is felt throughout the 4th Special Operations Squadron, the 73d Special Operations Squadron, and the entirety of our wing. We will honor his service at a date to be determined by his family and his squadron. For any inquiries regarding the ongoing investigation, we advise directing them to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.”
