Accident claims Airman's life

DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- A Dyess Airman died Saturday as a result of in-juries he suffered in an accident Friday while exiting the base at the main gate.

Airman Cody Sparks, 7th Munitions Squadron conventional maintenance crew member,
entered the Air Force July 12, 2005, and has been at Dyess since Nov. 9, 2005.

“He was a good Airman,” said Tech. Sgt. Jerry Lindquester, 7th MUNS conventional maintenance assistant flight chief. “He was always on time, and he did his job well. His professional customs and courtesies were topnotch.”

Airman Sparks’ coworker and friend, Amn. Harrell Singley, 7th MUNS ammunitions specialist, said Cody was relaxed, fun, easygoing and loved the outdoors.

“Team Dyess is a close-knit family and the death of one of our own affects all of us,” said Col. Garrett Harencak, 7th Bomb Wing commander. “My deepest condolences go to the family of Airman Sparks; we share in their sorrow over this tragic loss. Cody will be missed.”

Airman Sparks was born in Humble, Texas, April 25, 1985, to Floyd and Angela Sparks. He graduated from Humble High School in 2003. His hobbies were fishing, paintball, swimming, and playing video games. He was laid to rest Thursday in his hometown.

The cause of the accident is unknown at this time.