U.S. CENTRAL COMMAND AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY– Five years after the tragic crash of an E-11A aircraft, callsign Black Wolf 01, and the loss of its two pilots in Afghanistan, the 430th Expeditionary Electronic Combat Squadron continues to honor the crew’s enduring legacy.

On Jan. 27, 2020, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Paul “Tabs” Voss, 46, and Capt. Ryan “Fogg” Phaneuf, 30, lost their lives while attempting an emergency landing of their damaged E-11A in the Ghazni province. Serving as a Battlefield Airborne Communications Node, the E-11A plays a vital role in bridging communications between air and ground forces, particularly in challenging terrains like Afghanistan.

To mark the fifth anniversary of the crash, members of the 430th EECS conducted a combat memorial flight, flying a flag in honor of the Black Wolf 01 crew.

“This tragic event remains fresh in the hearts and minds of the 430th EECS and the friends and family of the fallen,” said Lt. Col. Randell McCart, 430th EECS commander. “Tabs and Fogg were integral members of the Black Wolf pack and will forever be etched in our collective memory and heritage. This memorial flight reflects our continued commitment to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to support the BACN mission—a mission designed to save lives, even as it carries inherent risks to air and ground combat operations.”

Following the crash, the Air Force took critical lessons from the tragedy and introduced measures to prevent similar incidents. Enhanced training programs and the development of specialized squadron procedures now better prepare aircrews for scenarios like the one faced by the Black Wolf 01 crew.

“The Air Force has strengthened inspection criteria to identify potential issues before failures occur,” said McCart. “Additionally, E-11A aircrew now undergo specialized emergency simulator training to address the unique challenges that contributed to the mishap. This training is mandatory for all newly trained E-11A pilots. The 430th EECS has also introduced specific squadron standards and procedures to ensure BACN aviators are prepared for potential in-flight emergencies.”

The commitment to honoring the lives of Voss and Phaneuf endures among their families and the 430th EECS. Members of the 430th EECS participated in ceremonies both in the U.S. and within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility to remember the crew of Black Wolf 01.

“Many who knew Tabs and Fogg personally gathered at Arlington National Cemetery in January for a memorial service,” said McCart. “Out of respect for the aircrew and their families, the Black Wolf 01 callsign was retired after the mishap. However, on the day of the memorial flight, their revered callsign flew high across the area of responsibility once more in combat and in tribute.”

Even after five years, the legacy of the fallen remains deeply ingrained in the spirit and culture of the squadron. Their sacrifice serves as a constant reminder of the risks aircrews face and the resilience required to carry on their mission.

“Many previous Black Wolves remain in close contact with the families,” said McCart. “There isn’t a day that goes by in the 430th EECS where Tabs and Fogg are not remembered and greatly missed. We will always join the Voss and Phaneuf families in fond remembrance of their loved ones.”