Seven U.S. Armed Forces members — including one whose parents live in southern Denton County — were killed last week when a military helicopter crashed in western Iraq, according to information from Moody Air Force Base and Bartonville Mayor Bill Scherer.
Bartonville residents Ron and Margaret Weber lost their son, Air Force Capt. Mark Weber, 29, in the crash on March 15, according to the news releases.
A graduate of the US Air Force Academy, Capt. Weber is survived by his parents, according to Scherer, as well as four siblings: Leah Weber, currently serving overseas in the U.S. Air Force; Kathrine Weber, serving in the U.S. Coast Guard; Lori Weber, a nurse; and Kristen Weber, a writer and Christian stand-up comedian.
Capt. Weber was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force in 2011 and served as a Combat Rescue Officer, according to Scherer’s statement. Capt. Weber was assigned to the 38th Rescue Squadron, 23rd Wing, Moody AFB, Georgia, and was serving in Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.
Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) pilots and crews face the most highly dangerous and hazardous missions risking their lives going into combat zones in an effort to rescue the wounded and downed pilots.
Capt. Weber also did rescue work in the United States during the hurricanes just last year.
“We are indebted to Capt. Weber’s service, commitment, and sacrifice to our nation,” Scherer’s statement said. “Because of his bravery and selflessness, we enjoy daily freedom and security. It is our duty to honor and never forget the sacrifice that Capt. Weber made.
“The Town of Bartonville extends heartfelt prayers and condolences to the Weber family and all affected by this tragedy.”
Hugs and ?? to the Weber family on the loss of their son, Mark. He made @DentonGuyerFB proud on the field, earning the school’s first D-I ?scholarship and off, for his service in @usairforce 4 our ??. We are ?for the loss of a great student and man. https://t.co/LjMEsdCnqF
— Denton ISD (@dentonisd) March 22, 2018
.jpg)
