Memorial services Friday for Capt. Houghton

  • Published
  • By Maj. Bernadette Dozier
  • 388th Public Affairs Office
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah --  A memorial service has been set for 4:21 p.m. Friday in Hangar 37 to honor the life and service of Capt. George Houghton, a 388th Fighter Wing pilot who died when the F-16 he was flying crashed at the Utah Test and Training Range Monday.

Capt. George Houghton was part of a four-ship of F-16s flying a close air support mission that involved training with ground forces. The Candler, N.C., native was part of the 421st Fighter Squadron.

"We are deeply saddened by this tragedy and our condolences go out to George's family and the 421st Fighter Squadron," said Col. Scott Dennis, 388th Fighter Wing commander. "We lost an irreplaceable member of our Air Force and he will be greatly missed."

The wing ceased flying operations the day after the mishap, but resumed its flying schedule on Wednesday.

"Although this has been a difficult time for us all, the biggest honor we deliver to him is to continue his work and get back to the mission," Dennis said. "The training he was doing was critical to our Air Force and nation. He was getting ready for an upcoming deployment where he would have saved countless lives overseas."

Houghton's wife, Josie, offered her appreciation for the support she's received.

"I want to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."