MSgt. David L. Poirier, 52, of North Smithfield, R.I., died on Feb. 28 in a non-combat-related incident while deployed supporting US military operations in Afghanistan, announced the Pentagon on Monday. The cause of his death is under investigation, states the release. Poirier was a member of the New Hampshire Air National Guard’s 157th Operations Support Squadron at Pease ANGB, N.H. San Diego’s KPBS public broadcasting station reported that Poirier had arrived at al Udeid AB, Qatar, the day prior to his death.
In a rare letter to the entire force, Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. Kenneth S. Wilsbach is telling Airmen to stay ready to support Operation Epic Fury, the massive U.S. operation against Iran.