By Howard Packowitz
(25 News) – One of the eight people killed in the crash of a B-52 bomber in Southern California’s Mojave Desert earlier this month was an Air Force reservist with Central Illinois roots.
Col. Gregory Watson was a 1991 graduate of Normal Community High School, he earned a degree in communication at Illinois State University, and he worked at ISU’s public radio station WGLT.
The B-52 Stratofortress crashed shortly after takeoff during what the Air Force said was a routine test mission on Monday, June 15.
Watson, 53, was performing his role as weapon systems officer for Boeing at the time of the crash.
He was based at Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana and flew to California for the test flight the day before the crash, according to a family friend.
Watson, 53, is remembered by people who knew him more than 30 years ago in Central Illinois, including Willis Kern, who was WGLT’s news director at the time.
Kern said Watson was host of local segments during NPR’s Morning Edition.
“Greg was sharp, dedicated, and above all loyal. I cherish the years I spent with him and I grieve along with his family and countless friends,” said Kern.
Watson was a member of the 307th Bomb Wing, the only bomber unit in the Air Force Reserve Command. Its members paid tribute to Watson in a social media post.
“Though he was most recently assigned to 10th Air Force, Greg spent nearly a decade as a cornerstone of the 307th. From leading the 343rd Bomb Squadron to guiding our airmen in numerous leadership roles across the Wing, he was a mentor, a leader, and a true friend to so many of us. As a Command Weapon Systems Officer with over 3,200 hours in the B-52H, his dedication to the mission was matched only by his devotion to the people he served alongside.
Our deepest thoughts, prayers, and support are with Greg’s family, his friends, and the families of the seven other brave, dedicated Airmen lost in this tragedy. We stand with you during this incredibly difficult time.”
Watson was also a “huge” Chicago Cubs fan, according to family friend Carol Pampe. Watson’s family released several photos of Watson and wife Michele including one in which they attended a Cubs’ game.
Watson is survived by his wife, five children, and two stepchildren.
Pampe has set up a GoFundMe page to help the family. It has raised almost $64,000.
“As Michele navigates going from two incomes to one, and with two of Greg’s children still in college and one on a church mission, Michele is now responsible for taking care of the family on her own. All funds raised will help cover immediate expenses and bills, providing some relief as they adjust to this new reality. In addition to daily living costs, I hope to raise funds to allow Michele to help the kids with travel and school expenses. Please help Michele and Greg’s family in this devastating time. Your support means the absolute world.”
To learn more about the seven other people killed in the crash, click here
Comments