Airmen from the 455th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron salute during a fallen comrade memorial ceremony for six Airmen, Oct. 3, 2015, at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan. (Photo: (Photo: Senior Airman Cierra Presentado/Air Force)

Two Hanscom Airmen Who Died During Crash in Afghanistan Identified
Posted: Oct 03, 2015 12:32 PM CDTUpdated: Oct 03, 2015 12:32 PM CDT

HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass . (MyFoxBoston.com) – Military officials stationed at Hanscom Air Force Base have identified two of the airmen who died Thursday when their aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff in Afghanistan.

Senior Airman Nathan C. Sartain, 29, of Pensacola, Florida and Airman 1st Class Kcey E. Ruiz, 21, of McDonough, Georgia were both assigned to the 66th Security Forces Squadron at the base.

The men worked as part of the fly-away security team providing protection for aircraft, crew, passengers and cargo flying from one location to another.

"These Airmen were rock stars," 66th Security Forces Squadron Commander Maj. Joseph Bincarousky said. "Their enthusiasm and dedication inspired peers and unit leadership alike. This is the type of young Airman the Air Force needs more of; their absence is palpable. “

Four other military members were killed in the crash. Officials said their remains will be flown back at a yet-to-be-determined date.