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Military leaders reflect on fallen warriors

  • Published
  • 460th Space Wing Public Affairs
BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. --  Buckley leadership expressed their sympathy for everyone affected by the July 20 Aurora, Colo. movie theater shooting.

Among the victims were two Buckley members, Air Force Staff Sgt. Jesse Childress and Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class John Thomas Larimer.

"This tragic event has affected everyone here at Buckley Air Force Base and our local community friends and neighbors. We are deeply saddened by the loss of each and every loved one," said Col. Daniel Dant, 460th Space Wing commander.

Childress, 29, a was a cyber systems operation technician with the Air Force Reserves assigned to the 310th Force Support Squadron on active duty orders. Childress entered the enlisted in 2002 with the Army, where he trained as a satellite systems operator. He then joined the Reserves in 2010.

According to friends and family he was an avid sports fan, often participating in multiple intramural sports offered on the installation. He rooted for his Denver Broncos, L.A. Clippers and L.A. Kings and was a big fan of comics and superheroes.

Larimer, 27, was a cryptologic technician assigned to the Naval Information Operations Command. He joined the Navy in 2011.

"I am incredibly saddened by the loss of Petty Officer John Larimer," Cmdr. Jeffrey Jakuboski, Larimer's commanding officer, said in a statement. "He was an outstanding shipmate. A valued member of our Navy team, he will be missed by all who knew him. My heart goes out to John's family, friends and loved ones, as well as to all victims of this horrible tragedy."

A memorial service is expected to be held for both service members, more information on dates and times will be posted on Buckley's website when available.

 

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