DRAPER, Utah –
An Airman assigned to the 151st Air Refueling Wing died Nov. 29, of medical complications while on a routine deployment to Guam.
Tech. Sgt. Burton Patrick Juengel experienced an unexpected medical emergency on Friday, Nov. 25, and was taken to the emergency room at the Guam Regional Medical Center, where doctors worked to diagnose and resolve his condition. During treatment Juengel’s condition worsened and despite the heroic efforts of the hospital staff he passed away on Nov. 29, after battling this issue for many days.
“We are devastated by the tragic loss of an outstanding Airman and express our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, and family,” said Brig. Gen. Daniel Boyack, commander of the Utah Air National Guard.
“This is a tremendous tragedy for all of us deployed on this mission,” said Lt. Col. Philip Schembri, unit commander for the deployment. “Tech Sgt. Juengel was an outstanding Airman and performed his job with enthusiasm and a positivity that motivated those around him.”
Juengel lived by the Air Force values. Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do. He was a trained professional who sacrificed all to support the important mission he was called to perform.
Juengel is a resident of Roy, Utah, and is survived by his wife, their daughter, and their unborn child. His wife and parents were able to visit with him in the hospital prior to his death. Juengel’s wife is also a member of the Utah Air National Guard and is being supported by her unit and command.
Information for the upcoming dignified transfer from Guam to Utah and graveside services will be made public in a following release as it becomes available.
Media notes:
For information related to this release, please direct queries to Utah National Guard Public Affairs: Maj. Chris Kroeber or Ms. Ileen Kennedy by email: ng.ut.utarng.list.pao@mail.mil.