A 23-year-old US Air Force airman died after heavy equipment he was operating rolled down an embankment at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on Thursday. Airman 1st Class Cedric Eneluna was the sole fatality in the incident.
Vandenberg Space Force Base accident details
Eneluna, originally from the Philippines and later St. Louis, Missouri, joined the military on March 5, 2024. Vandenberg was his first duty assignment. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of death or the type of equipment involved.
Col. James T. Horne III, commander of Space Launch Delta 30 and Vandenberg Space Force Base, said Eneluna “made a lasting impression on his teammates through his character, dedication, and genuine care for others.” The base is used for satellite launches and testing intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Role of the "Dirt Boyz" at Vandenberg
Eneluna was a member of the “Dirt Boyz,” a nickname for US Air Force pavements and equipment specialists. The group supports launch, test, and range operations at the base.
The investigation into the accident remains ongoing. Officials have not released further details.
