HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- To foster transparency and address concerns of Air Commandos, Air Force Special Operations Command leadership, along with community leaders, held a town hall today to discuss the recent shooting incident involving an Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Department deputy resulting in the death of SrA Roger Fortson May 3rd.
The event aimed to provide clarity, share information, and facilitate constructive dialogue.
AFSOC Commander, Lt Gen Tony Bauernfeind, expressed the command’s priorities remain supporting SrA Fortson’s family and honoring his service, supporting the 1 SOW, and supporting all impacted by this incident. He underscored the importance of continued dialogue between Air Commandos and their leadership as well as community leaders.
Air Commandos raised many questions concerning the status and details of the ongoing investigations and feelings of frustration and sadness.
Community leaders, including elected officials and representatives from local advocacy groups, discussed ways to rebuild trust and offered perspectives on how to address the concerns Air Commandos highlighted by this incident.
The town hall concluded with a commitment to ongoing dialogue and collaboration between AFSOC and community leaders. Participants expressed hope that the meeting would mark a step towards healing in the wake of the tragic incident and be one event in the continued journey to remove barriers that prevent Air Commandos from reaching their full potential.