Team Kadena loses one of its own

Published Feb. 7, 2011

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- A military member assigned to Kadena Air Base was found dead at his home, Feb. 6, in Mihama district. The military member is identified as Tech. Sgt. Curtis Eccleston, from the 733d Air Mobility Squadron.

"Yesterday, we lost a valuable member of our military family," said Lt. Col. Ryan Marshall, commander of the 733d Air Mobility Squadron, Kadena Air Base, Japan. "We share in the sorrow felt by Tech. Sgt. Curtis Eccleston's loved ones, and we must not forget the tremendous contributions he made to our Air Force, our nation, and the impact he has left on our organization."

"This is a tragic loss for the members of Team Kadena," said Col. Ricky Rupp, vice commander of the 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base. "Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his family and friends."

The Air Force law enforcement officials and Japanese police are working together to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death.

The cause of death is under investigation.