Airmen remembered as heroes, family men

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A memorial service was held Tuesday morning for the four North Carolina Air National Guard airmen killed when their plane crashed while fighting a wildfire.

The airmen's families, invited guests and members of the 145th Airlift Wing attended the private service at the unit's base in Charlotte.

Lt. Col. Paul Mikeal, 42, Maj. Joseph McCormick, 36, Maj. Ryan David, 35, and Senior Master Sgt. Robert Cannon, 50, all died July 1 when their C-130 crashed while fighting a wildfire in the South Dakota Black Hills. Two crewmen were injured.

In eulogizes his colleague, Maj. James Bodolosky said of McCormick, "If Joe said something, he was a man of his word. He was the most honorable man that I knew. He worked very hard to bring honor to himself, to his family, to his country."

The four men leave behind nine children, including the a baby boy born six months ago. Gov. Bev Perdue presented the men's widows with flags flown over the State Capitol.

Among the state officials attending Tuesday were Perdue, Lt. Gov. Walter Dalton, the Democratic candidate for governor, and Pat McCrory, the Republican contender for governor.

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I think it is disgraceful on the part of the National Guard that they thought so little of these members that the didn't even wear their dress uniforms to honor them. Sad commentary for our Guard IMO.

bluegrass
July 11, 2012 8:02 a.m.

There is more at stake here than someone not doing his/her research. At least starvingdog's comment reflected What happened.

This is a Horrible hand dealt to the families left behind. My heart goes out to them as they begin this tremendous journey of carrying on without their husbands, fathers, sons. So very, very sad.

whyalltheproblems
July 10, 2012 6:51 p.m.

Hey starvingdog,

N.C. flew flags at half-mast in honor of the lost airmen on Tuesday, July 3rd.

From WRAL.com: "Gov. Beverly Perdue ordered all state flags to be lowered to half-staff until sunset Tuesday in honor of the C-130 crew."

There's a quote from Mark Twain about keeping ones mouth shut. Please research it and put it to use. Thank you.

Plum Tuckered
July 10, 2012 5:33 p.m.

More young and skilled Men and Women DYING for a mistake. The families are in my mind and heart. How sad.

ss3510
July 10, 2012 5:25 p.m.

One of my friend's brothers was Mr. Cannon - one of those who died. Brought it all back home to me ... it's one thing to read about those who were killed, but when it affects someone you know, it just seems so real. God bless these families.

info257
July 10, 2012 3:45 p.m.