Photo Credit: The Gadsden Times (https://www.gadsdentimes.com/story/news/local/2011/05/05/ausborn-showed-leadership-qualities-early/32149826007/)
Clarissa Grizzle contributed to the writing of this vignette
Major Jeffrey O. Ausborn was born in Gadsden, Alabama where he dreamed of becoming a fighter pilot. Attending the University of Alabama on a full scholarship, he majored in computer science. His technology savvy allowed him to begin his service as a communications officer, though his heart was in the air. He later achieved his wings, becoming a C-130 pilot. His love of flying and talent afforded him the chance to become an instructor pilot.
In 2011, Maj. Ausborn was deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan as a C-27 instructor pilot to new Afghan pilots. Sadly, on the morning of 27 April 2011, a helicopter pilot for the Afghan Air Force pulled a pistol from his flight suit and opened fire, resulting in Maj. Ausborn, seven other service members, and one civilian contractor being killed in the line of duty.
Major Jeffrey O. Ausborn was survived by his wife, Suzanna, and their five children, Emily, Eric, Shelby, Mitchell, and Summer.
Thank you, sir.
AAMF 