US Department of Defense: Pilot from Palm Bay dies in non-combat incident

A U.S. Air Force soldier from Palm Bay has been identified by the U.S. Department of Defense as the victim of a fatal non-combat incident. According to the Department of Defense, Air Force Staff Sgt. Tristen Wright, 28, of Palm Bay, died Aug. 15 in a “non-combat incident at an undisclosed location.” Wright was assigned to the 27th Special Operations Wing at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico. He joined the Army in August 2016 and had been assigned to the 27th Special Operations Logistics Readiness Squadron since 2019. At the time of his death, he was deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. “Tristen was a force for good within the 27 SOLRS and beyond,” said Maj. Brent Escay, 27th SOLRS commander. “He was the type of supervisor who took the privilege of leading and mentoring Airmen seriously. He cared deeply about the Airmen in his flight and actively volunteered in the local community. We will never forget how his infectious smile could light up a room.” Wright was previously assigned to the 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron at Kadena Air Base, Japan. “These are our most difficult days. Tristen has had a positive impact on the entire Cannon family and the local community,” said Col. Robert Johnston, 27th Special Operations Wing commander. “We are committed to caring for Tristen's family and teammates affected by this tragedy. His family and friends remain in our thoughts and prayers.” Wright had received several awards and commendations during his time in the Air Force, including a U.S. Air and Space Force Commendation Medal, a U.S. Air Force Achievement Medal with two oak leaf branches and “C” symbols, an Air Force Good Conduct Medal with an oak leaf branch, a Global War on Terrorism Medal and a National Defense Service Medal.