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Dedication recalls late SFS member

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Michael Battles
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Travis Air Force Base senior leaders, the 60th Security Forces and the Travis First Term Airman Center came together with family and friends of fallen Airman 1st Class Elizabeth Jacobson during a dedication ceremony Sept. 28.

The FTAC classroom, which is used for Airman to in-process when they arrive at their first duty station, will now be known as the "Airman 1st Class Elizabeth Jacobson First Term Airman Center."

"Last year I wanted to start a hero wall at FTAC and thought it would be nice to dedicate the classroom to one of our fallen Airman," said Tech. Sgt. Tanya Chavez, FTAC non-commissioned officer in charge. "I came across Airman Jacobson and instantly connected with her and her story."

Airman Jacobson was a Security Forces member who lost her life in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom on Sept. 28, 2005.

"She served this nation so that we could deliver airpower around the globe," said Col. James Vechery, 60th Air Mobility Wing commander. "We are here today to celebrate her life, to honor her for what she has done and the selfless service she has given this nation."

Airman Jacobson was the first Security Forces Airman to lose their life in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as the first female Security Forces member to lose their life.  Airman Jacobson lost her life while providing convoy security support in Safwan, Iraq, when her convoy was struck by an improvised explosive device.

"Looking at her pictures reminds me of every Airman that in-processes through FTAC," said Sergeant Chavez. "Her dedication to duty and selflessness is an example we should all follow.  Now that the classroom is officially dedicated to Airman Jacobson, all Travis Airmen will know her legacy and will be inspired by her courageousness for years to come," said Sergeant Chavez.