In memory of Sub-Lieutenant José Ángel Fernández, of the Spanish Air Force

This is the third article I've written this week about a member of the Spanish Armed Forces who has died. A sad week, without a doubt.

This morning, the Spanish Air Force announced the death of Sub-Lieutenant José Ángel Fernández. He died of natural causes during a day off while stationed at the Santiago de Compostela Military Airfield as part of the wildfire fighting campaign.

Sub-Lieutenant Fernández, 56, married with two children, was assigned to the 43rd Air Force Group, based in Torrejón de Ardoz, which deploys detachments to various locations in Spain every summer to combat forest fires with its CL-215T and CL-415 amphibious aircraft. The Air Force stated: "His more than 30 years and 4,000 flight hours with the unit pale in comparison to his camaraderie, charisma, and deep love for his profession. We join in the grief of his family, friends, and colleagues. Rest in peace, Sub-Lieutenant."

The 43rd Group stated yesterday: "Ángel was a great corsair, one of the most experienced flight mechanics, who had been fighting alongside us for almost 30 years.A great friend and much-loved colleague, indispensable to the daily life of our unit, has left us unexpectedly. The entire corsair family will be eternally indebted to you."

My deepest condolences to the family and colleagues of the deceased sub-lieutenant. Grant him, O Lord, eternal rest. Let perpetual light shine upon him. Rest in peace.