Knowlan memorial

Photos and displays paying tribute to Maj. Garrett Knowlan’s career, family and life were on view at the memorial ceremony held for him, Nov. 5 at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. Knowlan died while participating in Air Force Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape training at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola. The memorial service brought family, friends and co-workers together to say their final goodbyes. (U.S. Air Force photo/Samuel King Jr.)

Knowlan accident investigation completed

Published March 19, 2013
Air Education and Training Command

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas -- A report released by a ground accident investigation board shows an Air Force officer was struck and killed by a government-contracted boat in October while participating in a one-man life raft training exercise near Pensacola, Fla.

Maj. Garrett Knowlan was killed immediately when he was struck by a boat involved in the Air Force Water Survival Training Course. The boat, a 41-foot MonArk tow boat operated by a government contractor, Metson Marine Services, Incorporated, struck Knowlan after he landed in the water as part of the curriculum.

A series of events related to multiple students being in the water contributed to a loss of situational awareness by the crew, which contributed to the accident.

Knowlan was a 2002 graduate of the Air Force Academy and a 2010 graduate of the Air Force Test Pilot School. He was then-assigned as the executive officer for the commander of the 96th Test Wing at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.

Col. Rhea E. Dobson, vice commandant of Air Command Staff College at Maxwell Air Force Base, Ala., was president of the ground accident board.

A memorial fund has been set up to provide assistance to Knowlan's family. Donations can be made to the "Knowlan Family Memorial Fund" and mailed to Knowlan Family Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 363, Jackson, Missouri 63755.