Nellis Air Force Base identifies airman killed in fall before college football game

Nellis Air Force Base has identified the service member who died following a rappelling accident at a University of Texas at San Antonio football game as Tech Sgt. Ian Patterson, a Tactical Air Control Party instructor assigned to the 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2, Joint Base San Antonio, Texas. Patterson was from Fort Stewart, Georgia, and served 15 years in the Air Force. His decorations included the Air and Space Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Army Commendation Medal, Air and Space Achievement Medal, and Army Achievement Medal, each with one oak leaf cluster. In 2022, Patterson was named the Air Force Special Warfare Enlisted Instructor of the Year at the Headquarters Air Force level. Brig. Gen. Scott C. Mills, 57th Wing commander, said in a statement: ‘This tragedy is felt deeply across the 57th Wing. Tech. Sgt. Patterson and his service mattered immensely to our wing, and to the family, friends, and teammates who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside him.’ Mills added that the wing is now focused on supporting Patterson’s family, loved ones, and fellow airmen, and expressed gratitude to the San Antonio community and mission partners at Joint Base San Antonio for their care and support during this difficult time. Sources: FOX5 Vegas Read the full story at 8 News Now →