TOP STORY >>Vehicle crash kills Little Rock AFB Airman

A Little Rock Air Force Base Airman died from injuries sustained in a vehicle accident May 20.

Senior Airman Walter Willis, assigned to the 53rd Airlift Squadron Aircraft Maintenance Unit, was killed when his motorcycle collided with another vehicle on Cantrell Road in Little Rock.

Airman Willis’ commander said his unit will miss him.

“The squadron mourns the tragic loss of a highly professional teammate. Senior Airman Walter Willis was respected by his peers, always dependable to his supervisors, and steadfastly committed to the safety of the operators he supported, said Lt. Col. Lawrence Havird, 314th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander. “As an aircraft crew chief, he labored endlessly to ensure our mission was successful. Walter’s co-workers in the 53rd Aircraft Maintenance Unit will miss him dearly. The unit will strive to honor his service and will be vigilant in taking care of his family. Walter earned and deserves our very best.”
Airman Willis’ co-workers will remember his smile, generosity and his love of life.

Whether behind the grill at squadron cookouts, on the gridiron during intramural football or on the line making sure his C-130s were mission ready, his life impacted every aspect of his squadron.

“Willis always had a big smile and could make anybody else smile and laugh. He was full of life, and always took the positive road and lifted everyone up along the way, said Tech. Sgt. Jason Howse, 314th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. “He was wise beyond his years.  His knowledge life and business were surpassed by very few. Outstanding Mechanic, he had vast system knowledge and always the go to guy. He was like having three extra people on the job. He was someone to emulate, and strive to be like — a true mentor.”

The accident is under investigation.