DOD identifies pilot killed in F-16 crash

Capt. James Steel (left), 29, from the 77th Fighter Squadron at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., was killed April 3, 2013, when his F-16 Fighting Falcon crashed in Afghanistan after a close-air support mission. Steel, a native of Tampa, Fla., graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo., in 2006. (U.S. Air Force photo/Capt. Ann Blodzinski)

Academy grad identified in Afghanistan crash

Published April 5, 2013

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Air Force officials have confirmed a Shaw Air Force Base F-16 Fighting Falcon pilot was killed April 3 after his aircraft crashed in Afghanistan while returning to base from a close air support mission.

The pilot, Capt. James Steel, 29, graduated from the Air Force Academy in 2006, completed pilot training and arrived at Shaw in June 2010. He was the chief of mobility for the 77th Fighter Squadron.

"Our condolences and prayers are with the family, friends and squadron members of Capt. Steel," said Col. Clay Hall, 20th Fighter Wing commander. "This is a difficult time for Shaw AFB, but we are focused on taking care of the Steel family, our Airmen and continuing to execute the mission."

The accident is currently under investigation; more details will be released as they become available.

Media inquiries should be directed to the 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office at 803-895-2019.

(Information compiled from Shaw Air Force Base Public Affairs and staff reports.)