WASHINGTON, D.C. — A West Virginia native was among the 11 people killed in the Friday morning crash of a U.S. Air Force C-130 in Afghanistan.
Friend and relatives say Ryan Hammond, a 2007 graduate of John Marshall High School, was among the six crew members killed when the plane went down shortly after takeoff. The crash happened just after midnight Friday near Jalalabad Air Field. Also killed were five civilian contractors on the flight.
The Taliban claimed responsibility for the crash, but Pentagon officials say there is no evidence the plane came under attack. The crash remains under investigation.
Hammond joined the U.S. Air Force soon after high school and was based in Abilene, Texas. He was married.
Friends and relatives shared condolences on social media about Ryan. One long time friend of who asked not to be identified shared his memories with MetroNews.
“He was always smiling and you couldn’t be around him without him making you laugh and smile the whole time,” he said.
Numerous messages of condolence and comfort were left on the Facebook page of Hammond’s widow. She shared her own message amid the outpouring of love and sympathy.
“You will always be my entire heart and soul. I love you so much my sweet man,” she wrote.
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito released the following statement Friday:
“The devastating loss of West Virginia native Ryan Hammond is a stark reminder of the sacrifices our brave military men and women make to keep our country safe. I am heartbroken by this tragedy and offer my deepest sympathy and prayers to Ryan’s family and to all of the families of those killed. Their bravery and service to this nation will not be forgotten.