Dustin K. Wright Obituary, Death: Army pilot ID’d after fatal helicopter training crash in Kentucky

Dustin K. Wright Obituary, Death – A fatal helicopter training accident at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, on Wednesday evening claimed the life of a 40-year-old Army pilot and left another pilot with minor injuries. The deceased soldier was identified as Chief Warrant Officer 2 Dustin K. Wright, a member of the 101st Airborne Division.

Initially, a social media post by the 101st Airborne Division suggested the AH-64 Apache helicopter crash was linked to preparations for the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday celebration, which coincides with former President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday and includes events in Washington, D.C. However, the division later issued a clarification, stating the crash occurred during a routine training mission within Fort Campbell’s designated training area and was unrelated to the Army birthday events or the Week of the Eagles, an annual celebration honoring the division’s heritage.

A division spokesperson emphasized that the incident was completely independent of the Army’s ceremonial plans in Washington and had no operational connection to the festivities.

The second pilot involved in the crash received treatment for minor injuries at Blanchfield Army Community Hospital and has since been released. The Army has not released additional details about the circumstances of the crash, and an investigation is ongoing.

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Wright began his military service in 2010 and had been stationed at Fort Campbell since May 2022. He had a distinguished career and was highly decorated. His awards included the Air Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and the Army Parachutist Badge, among others.

Col. Tyler Partridge, commander of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade, issued a heartfelt statement honoring Wright, highlighting his background as a former Infantryman and his dedication to supporting ground troops. “Dustin cherished every opportunity to be outside and support ground troops. He did so with strength and honor,” Partridge said. “We will forever cherish the memories of his service, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.”

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed sympathy following the tragedy, acknowledging the deep impact that the loss of a service member has on families and communities. “No matter how it happens, when we lose someone who has committed to serving our country, I know it hurts that family but it should hurt us all,” the governor stated.

State Senator Craig Richardson, whose district includes Fort Campbell, also responded to the incident. He called Wright’s death a painful reminder of the dangers military personnel face, even outside of active combat zones. “The call to serve brings risks at home, in training, preparation, and quiet readiness,” Richardson said.

Fort Campbell, a major U.S. Army installation, straddles the Kentucky-Tennessee border and is home to the 101st Airborne Division. As the investigation into the training accident continues, the military community mourns the loss of one of its own and honors the service and sacrifice of CW2 Dustin Wright.