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Kirtland identifies airman who drowned at Elephant Butte over the weekend
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Kirtland Air Force Base has identified the 22-year-old airman who drowned at Elephant Butte Lake over the weekend as a newlywed who was recently lauded for his work.
Authorities found Airman 1st Class Me’lik Etienne near Lion’s Beach Campground on Monday afternoon after he went missing Saturday evening, Kirtland said in a news release.
Etienne was assigned to the 351st Special Warfare Training Squadron at Kirtland. “He had been married for two weeks before his death and recently received recognition from the deputy commander of Air Education and Training Command, Maj. Gen. Clark Quinn, for his outstanding performance,” KAFB said on Tuesday.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of Me’lik,” said Nathan T. Colunga, Special Warfare Training Wing commander. “He was a bright spot in the squadron and embodied the energy, dedication and selflessness that defines this unit. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.”
Kirtland said alcohol was not involved in the incident, which remains under investigation.
The 351st Special Warfare Training Squadron leadership is escorting Etienne’s dignified transfer to Kirtland Air Force Base.
In addition to his wife, Etienne is survived by his parents and a sister.
