A deployed airman assigned to Westover Air Reserve Base has died from non-combat injuries sustained in Kuwait.
Staff Sgt. Ronald Ouellette was killed in an all-terrain vehicle accident on the flightline at Ali Al Salem Air Base, according to a Department of Defense press release. He was assigned to the 42nd Aerial Port Squadron as an air transportation specialist.
Col. Craig Peters, 439th Airlift Wing commander, confirmed the death of Staff Sgt. Ronald J. Ouellette this week.
“Ronald was a valued member of the Patriot Wing and there are no words that can heal the pain his loss brings,” Peters said. “We consider every Airman, civilian and dependent part of the team that makes all we do in the defense of our nation possible. The loss of our own, or any service member, is never easy. During this difficult time, our priority is to do all we can to lift and support his family, friends, fellow Airmen in his squadron and loved ones who are struggling.”
Ouellette had served in the Air Force Reserve for just under six years. His military awards and decorations include the Air Force Achievement Medal, NCO Professional Military Education Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Air Force Reserve Meritorious Service Medal, Small Arms Expert (Rifle) ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service Award, the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Training Ribbon, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
The cause of the accident is under investigation.
