SAN DIEGO — The U.S. military confirmed on Thursday the tragic loss of five Marines who were aboard a helicopter that crashed during a storm in the mountains outside of San Diego.
The CH-53E Super Stallion, the helicopter in question, disappeared late Tuesday night while returning to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego after a training session at Creech Air Force Base, located northwest of Las Vegas.
“It is with immense sorrow and deep regret that I announce the passing of five exceptional Marines from the 3d Marine Aircraft Wing and the ‘Flying Tigers’,” stated Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte, the commander of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.
The identities of the fallen Marines have not been disclosed yet.
“Our hearts go out to the families of our fallen Marines, and we pledge our unwavering support and care during this incredibly challenging period,” Borgshulte expressed. “While we acknowledge the inherent risks associated with military service, the loss of life is always a devastating blow.”
According to the statement, the process of recovering the remains of the five Marines has commenced, and an investigation into the cause of the crash is currently underway.
Capt. Stephanie Leguizamon, the wing’s spokesperson, admitted to having limited information beyond the official statement. She did, however, mention the challenging weather conditions faced by the search teams trying to reach the crash site.
President Joe Biden expressed his sorrow over the incident in a statement, stating that he and first lady Jill Biden were “heartbroken” to hear about the Marines’ deaths.
“Our service members embody the very best of our nation — and these five Marines were no exception,” Biden said. “As the Department of Defense continues its investigation into the incident, we extend our deepest sympathies to their families, their squadron, and the U.S. Marine Corps as we mourn the loss of five of our nation’s bravest warriors.”
Our service members embody the very best of our nation — and these five Marines were no exception.
–Pres. Joe Biden
The last known contact with the helicopter was around 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, as reported by Mike Cornette of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to CBS 8 news. This information was based on a “ping” reported to a Cal Fire dispatch center.
The helicopter was found on Wednesday morning near Pine Valley, a mountain community about an hour’s drive from San Diego.
The aircraft, which was designed to operate in harsh conditions, went missing during a historic storm that brought heavy snow and record rainfall over California. The search teams had to battle through heavy snow to reach the helicopter.
The five Marines were part of Miramar’s Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, as per the military’s statement.
The Super Stallion, which can carry dozens of people, typically has a crew of four: a pilot, copilot, crew chief, and mechanic/gunner, according to a U.S. Navy website.
The CH-53E Super Stallion is the military’s largest helicopter and has been used by the Marines for heavy-lifting duties worldwide for over three decades. More than 130 are currently in operation.
With its GPS, infrared radar, and other equipment, the aircraft has been involved in “a full range of military combat operations in Beirut, Somalia, the Persian Gulf, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya,” according to a U.S. Navy website.
Measuring about 99 feet long, the Super Stallion is capable of moving troops and equipment from ships to shore, ferrying supplies, and launching amphibious assaults.
Disagree Terrible news, my heart goes out to the families of those who lost their lives. #prayers
Terrible tragedy. Sending condolences to the families affected.
Terrible loss. Thoughts and prayers with the families affected.