Maj. Walter D. Gray, 38, of Conyers, Ga., died Aug. 8 from injuries suffered during a suicide bomb attack in Kunar province, Afghanistan, announced the Pentagon. Gray was assigned to the 13th Air Support Operations Squadron at Fort Carson, Colo. “Major Gray’s ultimate sacrifice is a tragic loss for the 93rd Air Ground Operations Wing family,” said Col. Samuel Milam, commander of the Moody AFB, Ga., wing, which is the 13th ASOS’ parent unit. Milan added, “[Gray] was a tremendous officer and leader. Our most heartfelt sympathies are with the Gray family and the airmen of the 13th Air Support Operations Squadron during this difficult time.” (See also report from WCTV of Tallahassee, Fla.)
The Air Force has finished modifying and testing the new VC-25B Bridge aircraft that will serve as a temporary Air Force One, the service announced May 1. All that’s left now is to finish painting the jet before it starts flying this summer.