The U.S. Air Force community is grappling with the death of Captain Nicholas Brown, a 34-year-old officer assigned to the 33rd Fighter Wing at Eglin Air Force Base. 

Searchers found Captain Brown after an Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Aqua Alert was issued over the weekend. The U.S. Coast Guard was called in to help with the search before the Air Force Officer was found dead.

The search concluded with the discovery of Captain Brown’s body. 

Col. Dave Skalicky, the Commander of the 33rd Fighter Wing, expressed the collective sorrow of the Air Force community, stating, “We’re mourning the loss of a valued teammate today.”

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office released a statement after Brown was found, which said, “Tragically, the missing diver has been located deceased. Please join us in sending our sincere sympathies and prayers to his family and friends.”

Captain Brown, an Austin, Texas native, served as an instructor pilot for the 58th Fighter Squadron at Eglin Air Force Base. 

Col. Skalicky emphasized the community’s commitment to providing support and resources to those closest to Captain Brown during this difficult time.

Details surrounding the circumstances of Captain Brown’s death are currently under investigation. The Air Force community and beyond await further information from the ongoing investigation.