MAJ Gregory D Young ~ Farewell and Walk with God

Farewell and Walk with God,

Major Gregory D Young

Oregon Air National Guard, 142nd Fighter Wing pilot, Major Gregory D Young, was killed on June 26, 2007 while participating in combat training. Major Young was flying an F-15 Eagle, coordinating with three other Portland based fighter pilots, dogfighting with Texas Marine Corps Reserve pilots, when the crash occured.

The rapid reaction of the Coast Guard had a helicopter on location within 30 minutes and was joined by cutters and a C-130. They recovered Major Young's body in the Pacific Ocean about 35 miles off of the coast of Oregon.

Major Young, 34, was from St Helens, Oregon. Major Young graduated from Oregon State University in 1996 with a degree in civil engineering and a minor in aerospace studies. He was a cadet in the OSU Air Force Reserve Officers' Training Corp and was one of 46 picked to participate in a 55-week Euro-NATO joint jet pilot training program. Major Young had about 700 hours of flying time in F-15s and more than 1,000 hours of flying time in other aircraft.

Statement by Brig. Gen Daniel B. O'Hollaren Commander of the Oregon Air National Guard:

"As you know, the 142d Fighter Wing lost of one of our finest yesterday in an F-15 jet fighter mishap over the Pacific Ocean. It is with my deepest regret that I must announce the loss of Maj. Gregory D. Young, 34, from St Helens, Ore. - a highly respected officer, gifted pilot, father, and friend. We ask that your thoughts and prayers be with him and his family."

Statement by Col. Steven Gregg, commander of the 142nd Fighter Wing:

"He was a very talented young man with many years of dedicated service to the protection of the freedoms we enjoy today."

The loss of this fine young Oregonian reminds us that the pursuit of excellence in the defense of our nation is not without danger, even at home. We mourn his loss and will keep his family and friends in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

To send condolences to his family:
142FW/PA
6801 NE Cornfoot Rd, Box 2
Portland, OR 97218
The group will make sure the letters get to the family promptly

UPDATE: Services will be held July 5, 11 AM, at St Helen's High School.