Montana-based airman found dead, cause under investigation
"You'll be missed TJ. Rest in peace, brother,"
A Montana airman was found dead by local police on Tuesday, prompting an ongoing investigation, said Air Force Col. Jennifer Reeves, commander of the 341st Missile Wing, Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont., in a Facebook post on Wednesday.
Staff Sgt. Manuel Trevino, Jr., of the 841st Missile Security Forces Squadron, was found dead by the Cascade County Sheriff department, Reeves said. Though Reeves did not specify how Trevino died, or where he was found, the colonel urged airmen to reach out for help if they are going through a hard time.
“This is me talking, Airmen. Please…there's nothing we can't handle,” Reeves wrote. “We've helped with finances, break-ups, depression, and other struggles. And let's be honest…we've all had our versions of these same struggles. Nothing is more important than your life. I'm asking you to reach out.”
Reeves listed resources including the Military Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255, or by text at 838255), the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255(TALK)), or texting HOME to 741741.
Trevino's death comes six days after two fellow airmen, Airmen First Class Xavier Leaphart and Aziess Whitehurst were found dead at Spangdahlem Air Force Base, Germany. Like Trevino, their deaths are still under investigation.
Judging by the comments responding to Reeves' Facebook post, Trevino was a respected airman.
“This breaks my heart man. You were a good guy. Gone too soon,” wrote one commenter.
“You'll be missed TJ. Rest in peace, brother,” wrote another.
