Hornbarger, James Robert
Male
Verified Technical Sergeant James Robert Hornbarger, 33, of Castle Rock, Washington, was a U.S. Air Force aircraft maintainer. He died on September 12, 2009, in Droushia, Cyprus, while deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
Their Story
Technical Sergeant James Robert Hornbarger was a 33-year-old U.S. Air Force aircraft maintainer from Castle Rock, Washington. He was assigned to the 9th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Beale Air Force Base, California, and had deployed to multiple locations including Afghanistan, the Philippines, and the Horn of Africa during his service.
On September 12, 2009, Hornbarger died in a non-combat related incident at the British military base in Droushia, Cyprus. According to U.S. Air Force statements, he was found unresponsive in his living quarters. An investigation was conducted, and foul play was not suspected.
Hornbarger's death occurred during Operation Enduring Freedom, the U.S.-led military campaign that began in October 2001 following the 9/11 attacks. The operation's mission evolved from targeting al-Qaeda and the Taliban in Afghanistan to a broader counter-terrorism effort across multiple theaters, including the Horn of Africa and the Philippines.
The Air Force notified his family of his death. He was posthumously promoted from Staff Sergeant to Technical Sergeant. His remains were returned to the United States, and he was buried with military honors.
He is remembered by his unit and community as a dedicated non-commissioned officer. His name is inscribed on the Air Force Memorial and on local memorials in Washington state.
Explore Further
TSgt Hornbarger was killed during Operation Enduring Freedom (2001–2014). The conflict concluded in December 2014. See the full roster of those killed in this conflict.
Among those documented in the same conflict: Andrews, Evander Earl, Edmunds, Jonn Joseph, Stonesifer, Kristofor Tif, Davis, Bryant Leroy.
