Misawa Airman dies while swimming

  • Published
  • By 35 FW/PA
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  (8:00 PM) - Authorities have identified the body of a Misawa Airman, pulled from the waters of Tanahashi Cove yesterday at approximately 12 p.m.

Airman Robert A. Hasley, 24, was reported missing July 24, at 4:50 p.m., while swimming with five other service members, according to witnesses. Japanese responders found his body July 25.

"The death of one of our own affects us all -- Airman Hasley was part of our Misawa family," said Col. RC Craig, 35th Fighter Wing and Misawa Air Base Installation commander. "Our hearts and prayers go out to the Airman Hasley's family and friends, and together, we grieve his loss."

Japanese national police, firefighters and coast guardsmen arrived on the scene shortly after the initial report. The Japanese teams rescued five Airmen, who were swimming with Airman Hasley at the time and were stranded by the rising waves and waters in the cove.

Airman Hasley, a native of Des Moines, Iowa, is survived by his father Anthony W. Vestal and his grandmother Barbara D. Vestal. A memorial service honoring Airman Hasley is scheduled to occur Friday at the Misawa Collocated club at 12:30 p.m.