July 12, 1999 (by Lieven Dewitte) -
An Air Force F-16C jet fighter from Cannon AFB crashed today at 0845h, about 8 miles north of Hobbs, N.M., while on a training mission.
Capt. Jason Marshall, 523rd Fighter Squadron, safely ejected from the aircraft. He returned to the base uninjured.
"There is an inherent risk in our job (being a fighter pilot), but we train extensively in emergency procedures," said Col. Chip Utterback, 27th Fighter Wing commander. "Marshall and the members of his flight are shining examples of professionalism. They made the right choices in a high stress situation. I am very proud of them."
A safety board will investigate the accident.
