The remains of a 26-year-old airman have been positively identified following the discovery of a burnt vehicle near Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. Senior Airman Tamera Moniq Bolden-Cleckley, originally from Boerne, Texas, was serving as a diagnostic imaging specialist with the 96th Surgical Operations Squadron at the base.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Eglin-Air-Force-Base-092826-0e669533c1bc40889afbdedd9f250cf5.jpg)
The identification was confirmed by the Air Force Medical Examiner on September 26, just days after the car was located by a routine security patrol. The vehicle was found early in the morning on September 23 around 4:30 a.m. at the intersection of Range Road 234 and Lewis Turner Boulevard.
Bolden-Cleckley, who enlisted in the Air Force in 2021, was commended for her contributions to the 96th Test Wing. Colonel Chris Keithley, the commander of the 96th Test Wing, expressed heartfelt condolences to her family and colleagues. He remarked on her value to the team and reinforced the base’s commitment to supporting those affected by this tragic loss. “We remain committed to supporting those affected by this loss, and encourage anyone who needs assistance to reach out to any of our helping agencies,” he said.
In a similar sentiment, Colonel Daniel Micsunescu, commander of the 96th Surgical Operations Squadron, conveyed his condolences, offering support to Bolden-Cleckley’s family and friends. The impact of her passing on the service community is being felt deeply, as fellow airmen and those she worked with reflect on her dedication and positive influence.
As investigations continue, the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) is probing the circumstances surrounding the incident. However, further details regarding the case have not been disclosed at this time, as the investigation is still in its early stages.
In the wake of this tragedy, the base has reiterated its commitment to ensure that support services are available to those in need. Airmen and staff are being encouraged to utilise the resources available to navigate their grief and distress.
The local community and the wider Air Force family are also processing the news of Bolden-Cleckley’s untimely death. As a young woman who dedicated herself to serving her country, her loss serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel and the importance of support systems in the face of such tragedies.
As the investigation unfolds, more information may come to light. In the meantime, the focus remains on honouring the life of Senior Airman Tamera Moniq Bolden-Cleckley and providing comfort to her loved ones in this challenging time.