March 15, 2008 — Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-02), made the following statement today after receiving word that a pilot was killed when his F-16C fighter jet from Luke Air Force Base crashed in a rural area in western Arizona while practicing air-to-air combat with another F-16.

"When I meet a young man or woman who puts on a uniform, trains, and studies military strategy and tactics for the single purpose to protect Americans, I am humbled by their profound nobility. When a young man or woman loses his or her life in the midst of doing this very thing, I grieve and am reminded of just how precious they truly are. My thoughts and prayers go to the young pilot's family as well as the entire United States Air Force 'family.'  A great patriot gave his life for this country, and I am eternally grateful to him and to the friends and loved ones who will also bear the burden of his sacrifice."

The pilot's identity has not yet been released due to pending notification of relatives.  He was part of the 62nd Fighter Squadron, one of eight squadrons at Luke Air Force Base in Glendale, which is the world's largest F-16 training base.