Memorial service for US airman killed in motorbike crash in Barton Mills

A memorial service is being held on Sunday to honour the life of a US airman who died following a motorbike accident in Barton Mills last week.

Airman 1st Class Darren Phillips, who was assigned to the 48th Equipment Maintenance Squadron at RAF Lakenheath, died on Friday from injuries sustained in an accident on the A1101 in Barton Mills.

The 20-year-old crew chief, who arrived at the base in July last year, had been travelling east of the A11 Fiveways roundabout when the motorbike he was riding collided with a car shortly before 1.30pm.

Police and air ambulance medics treated A1C Phillips at the scene before transporting him to Addenbrooke’s Hospital, where he later died.

Colonel Robert Novotny, 48th Fighter Wing commander, said: “This loss has been felt across our wing. Right now, we’re focused on supporting Darren’s family, as well as the airmen he worked and lived alongside here at Lakenheath.”

A memorial service will be held in Hangar 7, RAF Lakenheath, at 10am on Sunday.

Anyone with base access is invited to reflect on and celebrate the life of A1C Phillips, alongside his family and fellow EMS Bulldogs.

Military personnel attending are asked to wear uniform (ABU/flight suit) while civilians are asked to wear business attire.

The cause of the accident is currently under investigation.