Dodgers to Honor Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Killed in B-52 Crash

The Los Angeles Dodgers will honor Lt. Col. Gabriel Estrella, one of eight people killed when a B-52 Stratofortress crashed at Edwards Air Force Base in June, during pregame ceremonies before Game 1 of the National League Division Series. Three B-52 aircraft from the base will perform a flyover during the National Anthem.

Estrella, a native of Los Angeles, was identified as the Military Hero of the Game. His wife, Brianna, expressed gratitude for the tribute, telling NBC Los Angeles that her husband was a devoted fan of the team. "He truly was one of their biggest fans, and with him being an LA native, it means that much more," she said.

The B-52 crashed shortly after takeoff in June while on a routine test mission. The eight individuals on board included military personnel, government civilians, and contractors. The official cause of the crash remains undetermined.

According to an obituary, Estrella had fulfilled a lifelong dream of attending a World Series game at Dodger Stadium in both 2024 and 2025 and had anticipated a third consecutive appearance this year. His obituary also noted his love for sharing his passion for baseball with his family, particularly his daughter, creating cherished memories at games.

Estrella, 39, was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force with 17 years of service. He and his wife had three children together.