Search and rescue aircraft have discovered the apparent wreckage of the missing F-22 assigned to the 3rd Wing at JB Elmendorf, Alaska, wing officials announced Wednesday at approximately 4:30 East Coast time. This aircraft went missing Tuesday evening during a training flight. The search continues for the aircraft’s pilot, with a rescue team being dispatched to the area, which is approximately 100 miles north of Anchorage, they said. “Finding the missing pilot is our top priority,” said Col. Jack McMullen, 3rd Wing commander. He added, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of this missing airman, and we thank all Alaskans for their continued support and prayers during this trying time.”
Airmen and Guardians in the Active and Reserve component, as well as civilian employees, in “mission critical and high-risk populations” are now required to receive influenza vaccinations annually to “preserve force readiness,” according to a recent Department of the Air Force memo.