A U.S. Army soldier lost his life in a helicopter training accident at Fort Campbell, leaving the military community in mourning.
Incident Details
On June 11, 2025, a tragic accident involving an AH-64 Apache helicopter occurred during a training exercise at Fort Campbell, a U.S. Army base located on the Kentucky-Tennessee border. The crash claimed the life of Chief Warrant Officer 2 Dustin K. Wright, aged 40, and left another soldier, a pilot, with minor injuries. The injured pilot was quickly taken to Blanchfield Army Community Hospital in Tennessee and released later that night.
The 101st Airborne Division, based at Fort Campbell, confirmed the incident in a statement on their official Facebook page on June 13, 2025. The cause of the accident is still under investigation, and no further details about the circumstances have been released.
Who Was Dustin K. Wright?
Chief Warrant Officer 2 Dustin K. Wright joined the U.S. Army in 2010 and began serving at Fort Campbell in May 2022. Originally an infantryman, Wright later trained as an aviator, earning several prestigious awards for his service. These include:
- Air Medal with “C” Device
- Army Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters
- Army Achievement Medal with three oak leaf clusters
- Expert Infantryman Badge, Army Aviator Badge, Army Parachutist Badge, and Army Pathfinder Badge
Wright was known for his dedication to supporting ground troops and his love for serving outdoors. “Dustin cherished every opportunity to be outside and support ground troops. He did so with strength and honor,” said Col. Tyler Partridge, commander of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade. “We will forever cherish the memories of his service, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.”
Fort Campbell and the 101st Airborne Division
Fort Campbell is home to the 101st Airborne Division, known as the “Screaming Eagles.” This elite division is the U.S. Army’s only air assault division, specializing in rapid helicopter-based operations. Activated on August 16, 1942, the division has a long history of excellence and bravery, earning its nickname through high standards of military professionalism.
The base, which spans the Kentucky-Tennessee border, is a hub for training and preparing soldiers for complex missions. However, training exercises, especially those involving helicopters, carry inherent risks, as this recent tragedy highlights.
A Community in Grief
The loss of Chief Warrant Officer Wright has deeply affected the Fort Campbell community and beyond. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his sorrow, stating, “No matter how it happens, when we lose someone who has committed to serving our country, it hurts that family, but it should hurt us all.” His words reflect the shared sense of loss felt across the nation.
Kentucky State Senator Craig Richardson also commented on the incident, saying, “This tragedy is a solemn reminder that the dangers our military faces are not limited to distant battlefields. The call to serve brings risks at home, in training, preparation, and quiet readiness.” These remarks underscore the sacrifices made by service members even during routine exercises.
A History of Helicopter Training Risks
This is not the first time Fort Campbell has faced a helicopter-related tragedy. In 2023, a mid-air collision between two HH-60 Black Hawk medical evacuation helicopters during a training exercise resulted in the deaths of nine soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division, according to reports from The New York Times. That incident, like the current one, prompted investigations to determine the cause and prevent future accidents.
Helicopter training is critical for preparing soldiers for real-world missions, but it involves complex machinery and high-stakes maneuvers. Experts note that such exercises, while necessary, carry risks that require constant vigilance and safety improvements.
What Happens Next?
The U.S. Army is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the June 11 crash. Findings from the investigation could lead to changes in training protocols or equipment to enhance safety. For now, the focus remains on supporting the families of those affected and honoring the memory of Chief Warrant Officer Wright.
The 101st Airborne Division has promised to keep his legacy alive, with Col. Partridge emphasizing that Wright’s service will not be forgotten. As the nation reflects on this loss, it serves as a reminder of the courage and dedication of those who serve in the U.S. military.
The Fort Campbell community, along with the broader military, will continue to mourn and pay tribute to a soldier who gave his life in service. Moving forward, the Army is expected to review safety measures to ensure such tragedies are minimized in the future.