A 23-year-old U.S. Air Force airman has died after the heavy equipment he was operating rolled down an embankment at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
Airman 1st Class Cedric Eneluna was killed in the accident on Thursday, officials said. No one else was injured.
Authorities have not said what type of equipment Eneluna was operating, and the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Eneluna was originally from the Philippines before moving to St. Louis, Missouri. He joined the military on March 5, 2024, and Vandenberg was his first duty assignment.
He served as a pavements and equipment specialist with a group known as the “Dirt Boyz,” a nickname used for Air Force personnel who operate and maintain heavy machinery, roads, runways and other critical infrastructure.
The team supports Vandenberg’s launch, testing and range operations, helping keep the sprawling base ready for some of the military’s most important missions.
Vandenberg is used to launch satellites into Earth orbit and to test unarmed intercontinental ballistic missiles. Those long-range test missions typically end with the missiles splashing down at the Ronald Reagan Space and Missile Test Range in the Marshall Islands, according to Stars and Stripes.
Following Eneluna’s death, military leaders remembered him as a dedicated airman who quickly made a lasting impact on those around him.
“Our Vandenberg family is grieving alongside Cedric’s loved ones and his teammates,” said U.S. Space Force Col. James T. Horne III, commander of Space Launch Delta 30 and Vandenberg Space Force Base.
“He made a lasting impression on his teammates through his character, dedication and genuine care for others.”
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Seth Poulsen said Eneluna was known for his strong work ethic, helpful nature and positive attitude.
“He brought out the best in everyone,” Poulsen said. “He was always ready to work, always willing to help, and always had a positive attitude. He truly represented what it means to be an Airman.”