LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
Airman 1st Class Elizabeth Jacobson was the first female Airman killed in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom and the first Security Forces member killed in combat since 1975. She was honored at Lackland with Bldg. 9310 being dedicated to her in 2006. Her third memorial anniversary was Sept. 28.
"The Airman's Creed hits the bulls-eye with the statement, 'I am faithful to a proud heritage, a tradition of honor and a legacy of valor,'" said Lt. Col. John Fiske, commander of the 319th Training Squadron, which is housed in Bldg. 9310. "Heritage, honor and valor are words that drive deep into the hearts of those that serve or have served, those that have been injured and those family members and fellow warriors that lost their son, daughter or friend while serving our nation."
Airman Jacobson was killed by an improvised explosive device while providing security on a convoy originating from Camp Bucca, Iraq. She had been in the Air Force for two years and had been deployed to Iraq for more than three months.
"Heroes like Elizabeth Jacobson hit my core constantly because they remind me of the incredible warrior spirit that exists among Airmen that volunteer to serve at a time of war and the patriotic families who support them," said Colonel Fiske. "Today I recited a quote from Airman Jacobson's father, Mr. David Jacobson, who said, 'Do not let the cowards win. Do not let her die in vain. I ask all of our leadership to get this word out to our forces.'"
Colonel Fiske said thinking of words like Mr. Jacobson's and seeing dedications to fallen Airmen hold great meaning for him.
"To read and hear stories of honor and valor, followed by statements like this from grieving family members further reminds me why I am proud to be an American Airman and why our tradition will continue in honoring our fallen Airmen."
Airman Jacobson's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Combat Action Medal, National Defense Service Medial and Iraq Campaign Medal.