Keigan Baker Memorial Fund, Obituary: On March 19, 2020, the nation lost a dedicated service member, Airman 1st Class Keigan Baker. As we pay tribute to his memory, we honor his service and the ultimate sacrifice he made for our country. However, questions surrounding the circumstances of his passing have raised concerns about safety protocols during training exercises.
Investigation Findings, Keigan Baker Memorial Fund, Obituary
An Air Force inquiry into Airman Baker’s tragic death revealed deviations from standard safety procedures during the training swim test that led to his drowning. Unlike the established protocol of pairing swimmers, Baker undertook the 2,000-yard swim alone, increasing the risk of separation and potential hazards. Additionally, the ingestion of non-prescription sleep aids without medical authorization violated both diving class policy and Air Force regulations.
Biographical Information
Airman Baker, a combat controller, enlisted in the Air Force in June 2018 and joined the Special Tactics Training Squadron at Hurlburt Field in January 2020. Born and raised in Longview, Washington, Baker pursued higher education at Eastern Washington University before embarking on his military career. Assigned to the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center in Panama City, Florida, Baker was undergoing training at the Air Force Combat Dive School at the time of his passing.
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Training Protocol
The dive school aims to equip students with advanced combat diving skills and survival techniques. As part of the curriculum, students must demonstrate their swimming proficiency by completing a 2,000-yard surface swim while wearing simulated combat gear. Baker, like his peers, wore standard equipment, including a rubber AR-15 and a load-bearing vest, during training exercises.
Circumstances Leading to Tragedy
Airman Baker’s fatal incident occurred on the fourth day of training, during which students engaged in physically demanding tasks. Despite experiencing hip flexor pain in the preceding weeks, Baker showed no apparent signs of distress before the swim. However, adverse weather conditions delayed the start of the swim test, raising concerns about the impact of fatigue and discomfort on Baker’s performance.
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Conclusion
As we reflect on Airman Keigan Baker’s life and service, we mourn his untimely passing and acknowledge the need for stringent adherence to safety protocols during training exercises. His memory serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and the importance of prioritizing their well-being. May his legacy inspire future generations of service members to uphold the highest standards of honor, courage, and dedication.
FAQs
1. What was the cause of Airman Keigan Baker’s passing?
Airman Baker tragically drowned during a training swim test in St. Andrews Bay, Florida.
2. What safety protocols were overlooked during the training exercise?
The investigation revealed that the swim test was conducted without the standard “buddy team” method, which pairs swimmers for safety. Additionally, Baker consumed non-prescription sleep aids without medical authorization, violating established policies.
3. What was Airman Baker’s background and military career?
Airman 1st Class Keigan Baker enlisted in the Air Force in 2018 and joined the Special Tactics Training Squadron at Hurlburt Field in Florida. He was undergoing training at the Air Force Combat Dive School in Panama City, Florida, at the time of his passing.
4. How did Airman Baker’s passing impact his family, peers, and the military community?
Airman Baker’s passing left a profound impact on his family, friends, and fellow service members. His memory serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members and highlights the importance of prioritizing their well-being during training exercises.