SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Justin Vandervort, assigned to the 52nd Medical Operations Squadron, was found unresponsive on the A60 autobahn, near Spangdahlem AB, and declared dead at approximately 2:20 p.m. on July 31, 2018.
Vandervort was a 29-year-old medical technician from Orange, California, who served in the Air Force since May 26, 2009. He was currently filling a special-duty position as a First-Term Airman Course instructor. He is survived by his wife, Zena Vandervort, and his parents, Tamara Ports and Rocky Vandervort.
“Each and every person in this wing is a tremendously valuable member of Saber Nation,” said Col. Jason Bailey, 52nd Fighter Wing commander. “This loss affects the entire Spangdahlem community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and wingmen. We are doing everything possible to support them during this difficult time.”
The cause of death is under investigation.
Direct queries to the 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs office at 52fw.paoffice@us.af.mil or 0656561-6555. Anyone having knowledge of claim for or against the deceased's estate may contact the Summary Courts Officer, U.S. Air Force Major Christie Paulsen, at DSN 452-3166 of 0656561-3166 or through email at christie.a.paulsen.mil@mail.mil.