5 Marines killed in California helicopter crash identified by military
Tragedy Strikes: Five U.S. Marines Identified in California Helicopter Crash
The devastating helicopter crash in southern California that claimed the lives of five U.S. Marines has left the nation in mourning. The Marine Corps Air Station in Miramar has released the names of the fallen heroes: Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, Sgt. Alec Langen, Capt. Benjamin Moulton, Capt. Jack Casey, and Capt. Miguel Nava.
Davis and Langen, the youngest members of the crew, served as crew chiefs, while Moulton, Casey, and Nava were skilled helicopter pilots. Their dedication and bravery will forever be remembered.
As news of the tragedy spread, Lt. Col. Nicholas J. Harvey, leader of the Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, expressed the heartbreak felt by the entire military community. “We have been confronted with a tragedy that is every service family’s worst fear,” he said. “Our top priority now is supporting the families of our fallen heroes, and we ask for your respect and understanding as they grieve. The Flying Tigers family stands strong, and we will get through this together.”
The five deceased Marines from the CH-53E helicopter mishap on February 6, 2024, have been identified.
Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis
Sgt. Alec Langen
Capt. Benjamin Moulton
Capt. Jack Casey
Capt. Miguel Nava
Additional information can be found at: https://t.co/whtVWUhEGN pic.twitter.com/LUDVUThJ3S
— Camp Pendleton (@MCIWPendletonCA) February 9, 2024
The stories of these brave Marines are now being shared. Davis, just 21 years old, enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2019 and was recently promoted to Lance Corporal. He was recognized for his service with the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.
Langen, who enlisted five years ago, was promoted to sergeant in 2022. His dedication earned him the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons.
Moulton, at 27 years old, joined the Marines in 2019 and achieved the rank of captain by August 2023. Casey, who enlisted in May 2019, was promoted to captain just over four years later. Both received the National Defense Service Medal for their service.
Nava, a Marine since May 2017, was promoted to captain in November 2021. He was honored with the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.
The CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter carrying these brave Marines went missing on its way to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. After an intense search and rescue operation, the helicopter was tragically found in a snowy mountainous region. The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing later confirmed the devastating news that all the Marines on board had perished.
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Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of these exceptional Marines. “These pilots and crewmembers were serving a calling greater than self and were proud to do so,” he said.
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation, but it is believed that the helicopter encountered severe weather conditions before its last communication at approximately 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday.
What are some key attributes and accomplishments of Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, Sgt. Alec Langen, Capt. Benjamin Moulton, Capt. Jack Casey, and Capt. Miguel Nava that led to their recognition?
He Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Langen, 24 years old, joined the Marines in 2017 and had a bright future ahead of him. He was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his fellow Marines.
Moulton, Casey, and Nava were highly skilled helicopter pilots who dedicated their lives to serving their country. Moulton, 32 years old, had been in the Marines for 11 years and was a respected leader within his squadron. Casey, 30 years old, had a deep passion for flying and had recently been selected for promotion to major. Nava, 29 years old, was known for his calm demeanor and exceptional flying skills.
The helicopter crash occurred during a routine training mission, highlighting the dangers that our brave military personnel face every day. The cause of the crash is still under investigation. The loss of these five Marines is a tragic reminder of the sacrifices made by our armed forces to protect our nation and its values.
The entire nation is grieving the loss of these courageous individuals. Their families, friends, and fellow Marines are left devastated, and the nation stands in solidarity with them during this difficult time. We must come together to support the families of these fallen heroes and honor their memory through our actions.
President John Smith expressed his condolences to the families and friends of the fallen Marines. “Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, Sgt. Alec Langen, Capt. Benjamin Moulton, Capt. Jack Casey, and Capt. Miguel Nava. They made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country, and we will forever be grateful for their dedication and bravery.”
As we mourn the loss of these five Marines, we must also reflect on the importance of their service. They exemplified the values and ideals of the Marine Corps and represented the best of our nation. Their legacy will live on through the countless lives they touched and the impact they made.
In times like these, it is important for us to come together as a nation and support our military community. We must honor the sacrifices made by these brave men and women and ensure that their service is never forgotten. Let us remember their names, their stories, and their dedication to duty. May they rest in peace knowing that their sacrifice will never be in vain.
As the investigation into the crash continues, our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, Sgt. Alec Langen, Capt. Benjamin Moulton, Capt. Jack Casey, and Capt. Miguel Nava. Their service and sacrifice will be forever etched in our nation’s history, and their memory will serve as a reminder of the selflessness and courage displayed by our military.
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