Washington National Guard mourns loss of Air Guard Lt Col



Lt Col Flando Jackson (Official Photo)

The Washington National Guard is mourning the loss of Lt Col Flando Jackson, 45, who died Aug. 4, 2016 while serving in Southwest Asia.

"Flando had a remarkable military career, and served his state and nation with distinction," said Maj. Gen. Bret Daugherty, the state's adjutant general and commander of the Washington National Guard. "My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, who along with Flando's fellow airmen and soldiers, are grieving a tremendous loss. They should be comforted knowing that he served his state and nation well, and leaves behind a tremendous legacy for his children."

Jackson, a member of the 194th Wing, departed in July for a voluntary seven-month deployment. His death is under investigation, though it is non-combat related.

Jackson's military career spans more than 24 years, with nearly 10 years spent with the Washington Air National Guard.

Jackson was also a long-time Community Corrections Officer for the state Department of Corrections.

“Community Corrections Officer Flando Jackson was dedicated to public safety with the Department of Corrections for over 13 years,” stated Richard Morgan, Secretary for the Washington Department of Corrections.  “Officer Jackson was known to have a smile on face and a respectful demeanor for all people he encountered regardless of circumstance or situation.  Our agency’s thoughts are with his family during this difficult period of mourning.”