YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- An Airman assigned to the 374th Airlift Wing was found dead in Shimoda, Japan, on Aug. 20, 2025.
The Airman has been identified as Senior Airman John C. Fernandez-Buestan.
Senior Airman Fernandez-Buestan, 23, of Corona, N.Y., was a Radio Operations Technician assigned to the 374th Communications Squadron. He has been stationed at Yokota Air Base since 2022.
“John was a well-loved and valued member of our unit, and his death has had a devastating effect on the squadron,” said Lt. Col. Jesse A. Nelson, 374th Communications Squadron commander. “My command team and I are focused on providing as much support as possible to his family, friends, and coworkers to help them during this tragic event.”
For affected members seeking support, please visit the resources page for a list of agencies or consult your chain of command. https://www.yokota.af.mil/Resources/
Details surrounding the death are under investigation. Please direct all further inquiries to 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs at 374AW.PA.MediaOperations@us.af.mil