'I'm proud of my dad': 128th Air Refueling Wing honors six airmen who died in aircraft explosion 30 years ago

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- It's been 30 years since an aircraft from the 128th Air Refueling Wing exploded. Six Milwaukee airmen lost their lives. Now, their sacrifice is being honored.

Dec.10th, 1993 is a day that's etched into Milwaukee and the ARW's history.

“In honor of Master Sgt. James Schlicht, age 41; Master Sgt. Roy Starszak, age 57; Technical Sgt. Michael Heath, age 32; Technical Sgt. James Russell age 33; Technical Sgt. Russell Shurr age 35; and Staff Sgt. Patrick Foran age 31," said Col. Charles Merkel, the Deputy Wing Commander of the128 ARW.

It's the day a pump in aircraft 1470 created a spark, causing fuel to catch on fire. All six airmen lost their lives in the explosion. 

“There was no script, only airmen taking action," said Col. Merkel. 

The men on the aircraft were husbands, sons, and fathers. 

“It’s young, 13-years-old," said Justin Shurr.

Shurr lost his dad, Technical Sgt. Russell Shurr, that December day. 

“He taught me a lot of things that I still remember to this day. Those initial 13 years were very important, and they still last in my heart," said Shurr. 

Now, Shurr honors his father, keeping his memories and sacrifice alive. 

“You know, it made growing up a little tougher, but I’m proud of my dad and the service he gave to our country. I turned out okay," he said. 

Shurr says it's a reminder that to keep freedom free, some give up everything.