Young airman killed in heavy equipment accident at California Space Force base

A 23-year-old airman from North Carolina died Thursday following a heavy equipment accident at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, officials announced Friday.

The airman was identified as Airman 1st Class Cedric Eneluna, a member of the 30th Civil Engineer Squadron’s Pavements and Equipment Flight, according to the base’s Space Launch Delta 30 Public Affairs office.

The unit maintains critical infrastructure, including roads and airfields, that supports Vandenberg’s launch, test and range operations under the U.S. Space Force, officials said. The base is responsible for launching satellites into polar orbit and conducting intercontinental ballistic missile tests.

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Eneluna was operating heavy equipment when it rolled down an embankment, according to the base. No other personnel were injured in the incident.

"It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of Airman 1st Class Cedric Eneluna, a member of the 30th Civil Engineer Squadron," Vandenberg Space Force Base said in a statement.

"A1C Eneluna served with honor, humility, and an unwavering commitment to his teammates and the mission. His loss is felt across our Vandenberg family."

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The official cause of death has not yet been determined by the Santa Barbara County Coroner’s Office. Units at Vandenberg are supporting a Safety Investigation Board review into the incident.

According to the base, Eneluna was from Fayetteville, North Carolina, and also spent part of his childhood in the Philippines.

He joined the military on March 5, 2024, and arrived at Vandenberg in August for his first duty assignment, where he became part of the unit’s "Dirt Boyz" team, a group of pavement and heavy equipment specialists.

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"During his assignment at Vandenberg, he earned the respect and admiration of those around him through his positive attitude, tireless work ethic, and willingness to help others," the base said.

"He made a lasting impression on his teammates through his character, dedication, and genuine care for others," U.S. Space Force Col. James T. Horne III, commander of Space Launch Delta 30 and Vandenberg Space Force Base, said in a statement.

Eneluna’s squadron commander added that the young service member exemplified the qualities of an outstanding Airman.

"He brought out the best in everyone," U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Seth Poulsen, 30th CES commander, said. "He was always ready to work, always willing to help, and always had a positive attitude. He truly represented what it means to be an Airman."