Capt. John Sax Memorial unveiled at Lincoln Airport

Three years ago, on June 8, 2022, the Lincoln community lost one of its own when Marine Captain John Sax and four of his fellow crewmembers died in an aircraft accident in Southern California during a training mission. At the time of his passing, Sax was a member of the elite MV-22B Osprey "Purple Foxes" unit. The Captain Sax Foundation's website recounts how he loved aviation from an early age, attended a prestigious aviation college, became a flight instructor at Lincoln Regional Airport and followed his dream to be a Marine aviator. The love of his life, Amber, bore him two daughters. The memorial stone recognizing the legacy of Captain John Sax was unveiled at the Lincoln Regional Airport on a sunny Monday morning, June 9, with more than 100 friends, family, military personnel, Lincoln Public Safety police and firefighters and guests in attendance. The inscribed granite memorial, placed at the entrance to the airport's main gate, stands as a testament to his bravery, dedication and the indelible mark he left on the community he served. Mayor Holly Andreatta said, "It is a true honor to have this memorial here. It will be a daily reminder for us all of Captain Sax's honor and heroism that he displayed throughout his career." Lincoln architect, pilot, Warbird owner and the driving force behind the memorial, Jeff DeMure, said, "Today, we unveil more than stone and inscription – we reveal a tribute born of deep gratitude. Their dedication to protecting our freedom embodies the very best of the American spirit." DeMure read the "Flyers Prayer" by Patrick Phillips. Public Safety Chief Matt Alves said, "We gather here today to honor Captain Sax and those lost in that tragic incident. We stand united in reverence for their sacrifice. His memory, alongside those of his fallen comrades, reminds us of the profound cost of freedom. Honoring our veterans is not just a duty – it's a sacred trust. It's ensuring their sacrifices fuel our resolve to build a nation worthy of their valor. As we leave this place, let us carry the spirit of these men forward: Live boldly, serve selflessly, and cherish the freedoms they secured. A three-volley rifle salute and playing of Taps concluded the ceremony.