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MacDill Airman killed in IED Attack

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Rebecca Heyse
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MacDill AFB, Fla --  Department of Defense officials announced today the death of a MacDill Airman assigned to the 6th Air Mobility Wing who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

First Lt Joseph Helton, 24, of Monroe, Georgia, died Sept. 8 near Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his vehicle with an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 6th Security Forces Squadron, MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.

"We'd like to express our deepest sympathy to family, friends and comrades of Lt. Joe Helton for their recent loss," said Col. Lawrence Martin, 6th Air Mobility Wing commander. "Joe was an amazing Airman and defender who volunteered to lead our best in Iraq. We are deeply saddened by his loss and very proud of his service."

Lieutenant Helton is the fourth 6th Air Mobility Wing member killed in action since Sept. 11, 2001.

For more information, please contact the 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs office at (813) 828-2215.