A SUFFOLK-based American airman has been killed by a road-side bomb whilst on duty in Iraq.Airman 1st Class Jason Nathan, from RAF Lakenheath, was on patrol on Saturday afternoon when the vehicle he was travelling in was caught in an explosion.

A SUFFOLK-based American airman has been killed by a road-side bomb whilst on duty in Iraq.

Airman 1st Class Jason Nathan, from RAF Lakenheath, was on patrol on Saturday afternoon when the vehicle he was travelling in was caught in an explosion.

Colleagues have paid tribute to the 22-year-old, who was a member of the 48th Security Forces.

Brigadier General John Hesterman, commander of the 48th Fighter Wing said: “Airman Nathan was a superb young airman, dedicated warrior and valued patriot who died in an effort to make Iraq safer.

“His death is a significant loss for his family, our Liberty Wing family and the United States Air Force. “Our hearts go out to his family and friends during this difficult period.”

At the time of the incident, Airman Nathan was performing gunner duties with his squad in support of a difficult Iraq Police Transition Team mission, when an Improvised Explosive Device - specifically designed to destroy or incapacitate personnel or vehicles - blew-up.

A memorial service is being held in a hanger at RAF Lakenheath on Friday, in honour of the airman.