By Trend News Line 2024-06-21 00:09:21.
**Air Force Colonel and Utah Man Missing After Small Plane Crash**
In a tragic turn of events, Air Force Colonel Mark “Tyson” Sletten, 46, of Anchorage, and Paul Kondrat, 41, of Utah, have been reported missing after a small airplane crashed into Crescent Lake near Moose Pass on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. Col. Sletten, who serves as the director of operations for the Alaskan Command, was on an instructional flight with Kondrat when the incident occurred.
**Search and Rescue Efforts**
The Alaska Wildlife Troopers and the Alaskan Command have been actively involved in the search and rescue mission for the missing men. A team from the Alaska Rescue Coordination Center, along with volunteers from the Alaska Dive, Search, Rescue, and Recovery Team, have been utilizing sonar, remotely operated vehicles, and trained divers to search the lake, which reaches depths of over 200 feet in some areas.
**Eyewitnesses and Initial Response**
The alarm was raised when two hikers reported witnessing the plane crash at Crescent Lake on Tuesday afternoon. Following the report, an Alaska Department of Public Safety helicopter and a U.S. Fish and Wildlife float plane were dispatched to the scene. While debris from the aircraft was found on the lake, there were no immediate signs of survivors either in the water or on the shore.
**The Alaskan Command and Homeland Defense**
The Alaskan Command, based at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, is responsible for conducting homeland defense missions, civil support, and security operations. As part of the U.S. Northern Command, the Alaskan Command plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of the region.
**Location and Geography**
Moose Pass, where the crash occurred, is located approximately 100 miles south of Anchorage. Known for its rugged terrain and remote beauty, the Kenai Peninsula poses unique challenges for search and rescue operations due to its vast and unforgiving landscape.
**Remembering Col. Mark “Tyson” Sletten**
Col. Mark “Tyson” Sletten, a dedicated Air Force officer and experienced pilot, has served his country with distinction for many years. As the director of operations for the Alaskan Command, he has been instrumental in overseeing critical missions and ensuring the readiness of military forces in the region.
**Honoring Paul Kondrat**
Paul Kondrat, a resident of Utah, was a passionate aviation enthusiast who shared Col. Sletten’s love for flying. His adventurous spirit and commitment to aviation will be remembered by those who knew him, both in Alaska and beyond.
**Continued Search Efforts**
As the search for the missing men continues, authorities remain hopeful for a positive outcome. The dedication and expertise of the search and rescue teams involved underscore the commitment to locating Col. Mark “Tyson” Sletten and Paul Kondrat and bringing closure to their families and loved ones.
**The Associated Press Coverage**
This article is based on information provided by The Associated Press and highlights the ongoing search and rescue efforts following the small plane crash in Alaska. Stay tuned for further updates as the story develops..
Air Force colonel missing Alaskan lake
Men missing small plane Alaskan lake.