Staff Sgt. Ronald J. Ouellette, a U.S. Air Force reservist assigned to Westover Air Reserve Base, has died from non-combat injuries sustained in an all-terrain vehicle accident in Kuwait.
The 23-year-old Ouellette, who was assigned to the 42nd Aerial Port Squadron, died on Monday, according to Col. Craig C. Peters, commander of the 439th Airlift Wing at Westover ARB in Chicopee.
The accident occurred on the flight line at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait.
The cause of the accident is under investigation.
“Ronald was a valued member of the Patriot Wing and there are no words that can heal the pain his loss brings,” Peters said. “We consider every Airman, civilian and dependent part of the team that makes all we do in the defense of our nation possible. The loss of our own, or any service member, is never easy. During this difficult time, our priority is to do all we can to lift and support his family, friends, fellow Airmen in his squadron and loved ones who are struggling.”
In the 42nd Aerial Port Squadron, Oulette was an Air Transportation Specialist.
His military awards and decorations include the Air Force Achievement Medal, NCO Professional Military Education Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Air Force Reserve Meritorious Service Medal, Small Arms Expert (Rifle) ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service Award, the National Defense Service Medal, the Air Force Training Ribbon, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
He entered the reserves less than six years ago.
Ouellette, who lived in Merrimack, New Hampshire, was single with no children.
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