EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- A 354th Fighter Wing Airman was pronounced dead at a local hospital following a medical emergency Aug. 3.
Master Sgt. Jason Brackins, 354th Maintenance Squadron noncommissioned officer in charge of conventional maintenance, was transported to a Fairbanks area hospital by first responders after experiencing an unexpected health complication at his off-base residence. He was 36 years old.
“Jason Brackins’ death is an overwhelming loss for his flight, squadron, and the maintenance community as a whole,” said Col. Shawn Anger, 354th Fighter Wing commander. “Jason was known for being a leader across our wing and exemplifying what it means to be an Airman and a Senior NCO.”
Brackins enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 2002. He served in both overseas and deployed locations throughout his career as a munitions expert and joined the 354th FW in August of 2017. He assumed the role of NCOIC of conventional maintenance with the 354th MXS in May of 2020.
“Jason treated everyone like they were family and never missed a chance to take someone under his wing,” said 1st Lt. Samuel Saunders, former 354th MXS munitions flight officer-in-charge. “A lot of people lost a close friend, mentor, and role model with his passing.”
“Jason was an invaluable member of the 354th MXS family and his loss is being felt by all of us,” said Maj. Daniel Birge, 354th MXS commander. “We are keeping his loved ones in our thoughts while grieving the loss of a teammate and friend alongside the rest of the wing.”
Brackins is survived by his parents, his wife, and two children.
His military decorations include the Air Force Achievement medal and the Air Force Commendation medal with five oak leaf clusters.
For Eielson members affected by this loss, please contact the Mental Health office at 907-377-3071, the Base Chapel at 907-377-2130, or the Military & Family Life Counselor at 907-799-6921.
For queries, contact the 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office by phone at 907-377-2116 or by email at 354fw.pa.publicaffairs@us.af.mil.