 |
| Jonathan “JD” Lord’s wife, Tara, and family look over old photos after JD (inset photo) lost his life in an accident at Eglin AFB where he worked. (Photo credit: Nick Tomecek, Northwest Florida Daily News). |
On Wednesday, January 8, 2014, a fire suppression system inside a hangar at Eglin AFB, FL was somehow triggered. Jonathan “JD” Lord, an IAM member employed with DS2 (Defense Support Systems LLC), lost his life. Three others were also injured.
Lord, 31, was employed by DS2 as a Tool and Parts Attendant and an IAM member since 2006. He was also recently elected as a Trustee for IAM Local Lodge 20.
When notified of the accident, IAM District Lodge 75 Business Representatives Tony Wirth and Brad Smith met with the Site Manager and the Environmental Safety and Health Manager. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is now investigating. “The IAM will continue to monitor the situation, to ensure that all measures will be taken to ensure the safety of the workforce,” said Smith.
“JD was a friendly, well-liked member, who would help anyone in need,” said Smith. “If there was a car broken down on the side of the road, he’d always stop and help. He delivered meals to the needy on Saturdays with a program called Supper On Saturdays with the United Methodist Church in Niceville.”
“Our hearts go out to the family of Brother Lord and to those injured in this terrible accident,” said IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger. “Brother Lord cared deeply about his family, his co-workers and his community. His passing is a sharp reminder of the terrible pain and suffering workplace accidents inflict on the workers, their families and friends. We must continue to strive to make work-related illnesses and accidents a thing of the past.”
Jonathan is survived by his wife of 8 years, Tara, and his 5-year-old daughter, Kenna. “They were his life. JD was a great person, and the IAM and everyone that knew him will miss him,” said Smith.
