Kunsan Airmen remember fallen comrade

Published May 14, 2007
By Master Sgt. Sean P. Houlihan
8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- Members of the 8th Fighter Wing "Wolf Pack" came together at the base chapel for a memorial service remembering the spirit, impact and friendship of a fallen Airman May 14.

The 45-minute service was held for 15-year Air Force veteran Tech. Sgt. Michael Cook, a member assigned to the 8th Communications Squadron who died in his dormitory room May 8.

Maj. Bryan Richardson, 8th Communications Squadron commander, remembered Sergeant Cook as someone who gave of his time and talents freely. Whether it was volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club, helping with squadron or base functions throughout his years in the Air Force or helping out a family member.

"Words like team player, superior leadership ability, avid volunteer both off and on base, those were the characteristics everyone saw in Mike," the major said of comments in Sergeant Cook's enlisted performance reports. "There is a void ... we will miss him for the positive impact. The Wolf Pack is down one man and we can't afford it. Mike's loss will continue to be felt across the Air Force and the nation."

Major Richardson said that not only does the Wolf COMM and Wolf Pack family mourn but so does the Cook family.

"He was a positive person dedicated to Airmen, the mission and his family," he said. "Mike we will miss you and you'll always be a treasured part of Wolf COMM."

Wing Chap. (Lt. Col.) Paul Cannon gave pastoral prayers, Staff Sgt. Robert Millican played "Amazing Grace" on the bagpipes and Staff Sgt. Tomsanna Farley and Airman First Class Krystal Dittmer both read from the Book of Psalms. Master Sgt. Bruce Price read a note from one of Sergeant Cook's friend.

Master Sgt. Matthew Gurniak, 8th Communications Squadron first sergeant, read a letter written by Mr. Steven Cook, Sergeant Cook's eldest brother. The e-mail read:

"Although we don't know any of you, you are Mike's other family that he talked highly about," Mr. Cook wrote. "We would also like to send our condolences to all of you, his friends, associates, etc, etc... as well. Although we may never know or understand the reasons for taking his own life, we know that he was with good people at the time of his death. We want to thank you all for your support and prayers in our time of sorrow and the loss of a loved one. He will be deeply missed by us as well as his friends I'm sure. Again, thanks for everything. The entire Cook Family."

Chief Master Sgt. Michael David, the squadron chief enlisted manager, read the narrative for an Air Force Commendation Medal presented to Sergeant Cook.

During his time here, Sergeant Cook was responsible for a $6 million project supporting base expansion plans, produced an additional plan to move more than 700 people in five different buildings and restoring a surveillance system at the wing's munitions storage area, thereby ensuring the security of $10 million in ammunition. In addition, he installed 1,000 feet of cable providing the final infrastructure connectivity for a secure network between the two Air Forces here on base, maximizing the resources towards the joint wartime contingency effort.

At the end of the service, each Airman came to the front of the chapel to pay their final respects to Sergeant Cook. At the front of the chapel was a photo of him, a folded flag and his decoration.

Also in attendance was Lt. Gen. Stephen G. Wood, 7th Air Force commander. The general sent a message to wing Airmen shortly after the announcement of Sergeant Cook's and a soldier's death on the peninsula.

"As we mourn the loss of our brother in arms, we should all keep their families and friends in our thoughts and prayers," General Wood wrote. "We should also take time to remind those around us that whether you are a servicemember, civilian employee, invited contractor or family member -- you are our most valuable resource. Be a good wingman and take care of each other. You can save a life."