EUFOR troops at Butmir today remembered the tragic accident that claimed 4 lives on 19th June 2008. The 2 Spanish crew and 2 German passengers were all killed when the BO-105 helicopter suffered difficulties and crashed during a routine flight in a mountainous area near Travnik, 90km NW of Sarajevo.
A commemoration ceremony was held at Camp Butmir, Sarajevo on 21st June 2008 in the memory of all four EUFOR soldiers.
COM EUFOR, Major General Reinhard Trischak said,
“It is with much sadness that we remember today the 4 lives that were cut so short in this tragic accident. It is a stark reminder that the EUFOR mission in BiH carries risk but that risk brings with it hope and progress. Our thoughts today are with the families of the 4 men who gave their lives bringing stability and security to the region.”
Captain Santiago Hormigo and Sergeant Joaquin Lopez were part of the Spanish EUFOR helicopter team stationed at Butmir along with the German passengers Lieutenant Tim Heinen and Master Sergeant Zoran Krakic, all serving under EUFOR Command.