BAKER, KEIGAN

Keigan J. Baker was born January 14, 1996 in Longview Washington, and from early on, he was very active in local sports including soccer, baseball, Kung Fu, wrestling, track, basketball, and football.  

Besides excelling at school, his passion during high school was playing at Mark Morris where he earned 1st team all-league defense his senior year. Keigan graduated from Mark Morris in 2014. After high school, Keigan went on to Eastern Washington University where he earned his BS in Business Management. During his time at EWU, Keigan also participated in the ROTC program. 

Keigan enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in June 2018 and was named an honor graduate upon completion of basic training. After BMT, he secured a spot in the Air Force combat control program, an exclusive and highly-selective program very few achieve. Special Tactics Combat Controllers are widely renowned for combat reconnaissance, coordinating precision strikes and conducting personnel recovery operations. 

 

In December 2019, Keigan achieved Airman 1st Class (A1C) and received his coveted scarlet beret as a Special Tactics Combat Controller. Keigan was assigned to the Special Tactics Training Squadron, 24th Special Operations Wing out of Hurlburt Field, Florida.  

In addition to serving his country, Keigan was an active member of his community, loved his family dearly and found great joy in his friendships. Keigan loved being outdoors and lived life to the fullest. He was passionate about helping people succeed and always ready to help mentor or assist others. His kindheartedness had no limit, and his smile and laughter would brighten any room. His motto – DIE LIVING – truly reflected his mindset, his passion and his amazing life. 

A1C Baker passed away on March 19, 2020 after a 2,000-yard ocean swim training accident.  

 

Through Keigans death, the Keigan Baker Memorial Foundation was established with a mission to preserve Keigan’s legacy by serving those who serve—providing support to veterans and Gold Star families while empowering the next generation to pursue lives of discipline, courage, and service. To date, they have given out 29 scholarships through various partnerships totaling over $16,000. They have also donated over $13,000 to other organizations.  

Furthermore, the ROTC obstacle course at Eastern Washington University is in named in his honor.  

 

The Washington State Fallen Heroes Project proudly remembers A1C Kiegan Baker for his service, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation. His life continues to inspire all who learn his story.