BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Lauren Smith, widow of a victim in the B-52 crash at Edwards Air Force Base, shared memories of her husband, Jeromy, in a recent interview.
Jeromy Smith, a flight test engineer for the Department of Defense, had worked at Edwards for a decade with the 419th unit, according to Lauren. Eight individuals were confirmed dead following the crash during takeoff at 11:30 a.m. on June 11.
“He was the love of my life,” Lauren said, remembering Jeromy as a dedicated father to their two young children aged 2 and 4 months. “He is a leader. He’s a hero.”
Jeromy, originally from Oregon, had a longstanding passion for aerospace, having attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University before joining Edwards Air Force Base. The couple celebrated their fourth wedding anniversary shortly before the incident.
Lauren described a typical morning before the crash, detailing Jeromy’s routine. “He said, ‘Love you, goodbye,’ and one last kiss,” she recalled, adding that she later learned of the crash through a friend and news reports.
Authorities confirmed Jeromy’s death later that evening after a long day of uncertainty. A GoFundMe has been established to support Lauren and her children during this difficult time.
Community support has been significant, with Lauren expressing gratitude for the solidarity shown to all affected families. “I want everyone to know what a wonderful human being he is,” she said, highlighting Jeromy’s kindness and willingness to help others.