Bartonville residents Ron and Margaret Weber lost their son, Capt. Mark Weber, 29, on March 15. Capt. Weber, along with six other members of the U.S. Armed Forces, was killed when an HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter crashed in western Iraq.
A graduate of the US Air Force Academy, Capt. Weber is survived by his parents, as well as four siblings: Leah Weber, currently serving overseas in the U.S. Air Force; Kathrine Weber, serving in the U.S. Coast Guard; Lori Weber, a nurse; and Kristen Weber, a writer and Christian stand-up comedian.
Capt. Weber was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force in 2011 and served as a Combat Rescue Officer. Capt. Weber was assigned to the 38th Rescue Squadron, 23rd Wing, Moody AFB, Georgia, and was serving in Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.
Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) pilots and crews face the most highly dangerous and hazardous missions risking their lives going into combat zones in an effort to rescue the wounded and downed pilots.
Capt. Weber also did rescue work in the United States during the hurricanes just last year.
We are indebted to Capt. Weber’s service, commitment, and sacrifice to our nation. Because of his bravery and selflessness, we enjoy daily freedom and security. It is our duty to honor and never forget the sacrifice that Capt. Weber made.
The Town of Bartonville extends heartfelt prayers and condolences to the Weber family and all affected by this tragedy.
Bill Scherer, Mayor