CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A member of the West Virginia Air National Guard died in Kuwait earlier this week, state officials announced Thursday.

Tech. Sgt. David Board, 49, of Barboursville, a member of the Charleston-based 130th Airlift Wing died in what is described as a “non-combat-related incident.”

Board died Wednesday, a news release said.

“It’s a terribly sad day for West Virginia,” Gov. Jim Justice said in a statement. “We suddenly lost a hero and an airman in the West Virginia Air National Guard to a non-combat incident while serving our country overseas. We owe everything to the men and women who step up and make countless sacrifices to protect our freedom. Cathy and I are praying for the airman’s family and the entire National Guard family, and we hope the people of the Mountain State will join us.”

The 130th Airlift Wing is in the Middle East as part of Operation Inherent Resolve. State Adjutant General Jim Hoyer called Board’s death a great loss for the National Guard and the people of the state.

“Our sincere condolences go out to his family, his friends and fellow service members. His contributions to our state and nation are significant and he will be remembered with the profound respect and admiration of a grateful nation.”