5 missing Marines found dead after helicopter crash in California, officials say
Exclusive: Tragic End as Missing Marines Recovered Deceased Following Helicopter Crash in California
In a devastating turn of events, the five Marines who had gone missing during a helicopter journey from Nevada to California have been discovered lifeless, according to officials who made the announcement on Thursday morning.
Initial reports reveal that the Marines were engaged in a training exercise, commuting via a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter from Creech Air Force Base in Clark County, Nevada to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego, California. The helicopter's last known location was reported around 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday, and it was declared overdue at approximately 1 a.m. on Wednesday morning, as stated by the Marine Corps.
The wreckage of the crashed helicopter was located in a mountainous and treacherous region east of San Diego at approximately 9 a.m. on Wednesday, as confirmed by officials. Despite adverse weather conditions, including rain and snow, search and rescue teams, along with federal and local agencies, relentlessly scoured the area. The San Diego County Sheriff's Department faced challenges due to heavy cloud cover early on Wednesday, hindering the deployment of their helicopter. The U.S. Forest Service and the U.S. Border Patrol were also involved in the search operation, considering the proximity of the crash site to the U.S.-Mexico border.
The Marines belonged to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, as disclosed by the Marine Corps. In accordance with standard military protocol, their identities have not been released until 24 hours have passed after notifying their next-of-kin.
Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte, commanding general of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, expressed deep sorrow in a statement provided to CBS News, stating, "It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I share the loss of five outstanding Marines from 3d Marine Aircraft Wing and the 'Flying Tigers' while conducting a training flight last night. These pilots and crewmembers were serving a calling greater than self and were proud to do so. We will forever be grateful for their call to duty and selfless service. To the families of our fallen Marines, we send our deepest condolences and commit to ensuring your support and care during this incredibly difficult time."
President Joe Biden also addressed the tragic incident in a statement on Thursday morning, conveying his and first lady Jill Biden's heartfelt sadness for the loss of the Marines.
"As the Department of Defense continues to assess what occurred, we extend our deepest condolences to their families, their squadron, and the U.S. Marine Corps as we grieve the loss of five of our nation's finest warriors," expressed President Biden. "Our service members represent the very best of our nation—and these five Marines were no exception. Today, as we mourn this profound loss, we honor their selfless service and ultimate sacrifice—and reaffirm the sacred obligation we bear to all those who wear the uniform and their families."
Officials have initiated efforts to recover the bodies of the fallen Marines, along with the retrieval of equipment from the helicopter. Simultaneously, an investigation into the cause of the crash is underway, aiming to ascertain the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
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