Team Malmstrom mourns loss of Airman Published June 28, 2012 MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Senior Airman Joshua Daniel James Austin, an active-duty Air Force member assigned to Malmstrom Air Force Base, passed away at 8 a.m. June 23 after succumbing to injuries he sustained in a one-vehicle motorcycle accident the day prior. "We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our fellow Airmen," said Col. Robert Stanley, 341st Missile Wing vice commander. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends and co-workers as they try to cope with this tragedy. Team Malmstrom will support them in every way possible." Austin was assigned to the 341st Civil Engineer Squadron as a Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning - Refrigeration technician. The Sommerville, Tenn., native entered active duty Jan. 27, 2004, and arrived at Malmstrom Aug. 21, 2009. Austin's date of rank is Jan. 27, 2007. His awards and decorations include the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with three oak leaf clusters, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with one oak leaf cluster, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Air Force Overseas Short Tour Ribbon, Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon with one oak leaf cluster, USAF NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon and Air Force Training Ribbon. Austin was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, four wheeling and dirt bike riding but his greatest passion was for horses, which he learned at an early age from his uncle. He was an active member of the Big Sky Riders Saddle Club and a proud owner of four horses. Austin is survived by his wife, Cosette, and sons Jonah, 4, and Jacob, 2. He also leaves behind his mother Tammy, stepfather Pat and younger brother, Caleb. A memorial service in his honor will be conducted on July 2 at 3 p.m. at the base chapel.