Andersen Airmen found deceased after Search and Rescue attempts Published Nov. 24, 2024 By 36th Wing Public Affairs 36th Wing Public Affairs ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam -- SrA Roque Ray Cruz Santos was found deceased on Nov. 24 at approximately 9 a.m. following search and rescue operations near Family Beach. His remains were identified by the family on the scene and then transported to Guam Regional Medical Center. SrA Santos was a Fuels Service Center Controller assigned to the 36th Logistics Readiness Squadron. He arrived on Guam in March of 2022. “Roque was an integral part of the Team Andersen family,” said Brig. Gen. Thomas Palenske, 36th Wing commander. “I want to extend my deepest condolences to Roque’s family during this difficult time. Our priority is ensuring that everyone effected by this tragedy gets the support they need. We will use this time to come together and honor Roque and ensure he is remembered.” Roque started his Air Force career at Fairchild Air Force Base, where it was clear he was going to be a stellar Airman. During this time, he was asked to fill the lead Fuels Laboratory position where he performed 145 tests, certifying 500K gallons of aviation fuel, earning him superior performer recognition and a coin from a previous wing commander. He also established a Fuels Advisory Counsel and took the lead on improving his flight’s morale after COVID-19, proving him to be someone who cared about the happiness of others. After his arrival to Andersen AFB, it was seen early on that he was a standout performer. Starting as a Fuels Facility Technician, he inspected, maintained, and operated the Air Forces largest fuels facility infrastructure, valued at $545M. His section supplied the lifeblood during four largescale multinational exercises. Because of his great work ethic, he was selected to become a Fuels Service Center Controller, where he managed 42 refueling assets and 27 refueling technicians to accomplish over 2,000 refueling operations. His hard work was critical to his flight earning the 2022 Wing Large Team of the Year Award as well as his Flight being named the #1 Fuels Management Flight in PACAF for 2022. “The entire 36th LRS team is in mourning over the loss of one of our own,” said Maj. Stephen Mouton, 36th LRS commander. “Roque was our brother, a beloved member of the team and always committed to serving with honor and integrity as a controller. We will continue supporting Roque’s family and legacy, and expressing our thoughts and prayers to them, his friends, and all of Team Andersen during this difficult time.” Members looking for helping agencies can contact the following: Mental Health Crisis line: 671-646-8833 Military & Family Life Counselors (MFLC): 671-689-0526 Chaplain: 671-366-6138/9 If you have additional questions, please contact the 36th Wing Public Affairs office at 671-366-9371 or 36wg.pa2@us.af.mil.