Efforts to recover the remains of the Marines and equipment have begun, and an investigation is underway.
Five Marines who went missing after a helicopter crashed in California have died, the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing announced on Feb. 8.
“Five Marines with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing have been confirmed deceased following a CH-53E helicopter crash on Feb. 6, 2024,” the Marine Corps branch said in a statement. “Efforts to recover the remains of the Marines and equipment have begun and an investigation is underway.”
The identities of the Marines were not released.
“It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I share the loss of five outstanding Marines from 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and the ‘Flying Tigers’ while conducting a training flight last night,” Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte, commanding general of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, said in a statement. “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.”
Capt. Stephanie Leguizamon, spokesperson for the wing, said she had little information beyond the statement.
“I do know that it’s cold … I know that’s been a contentious issue” for searchers in reaching the crash site, she said.
President Joe Biden said in a statement that he and First Lady Jill Biden are “heartbroken” to learn of the Marines’ deaths.
“Our service members represent the very best of our nation—and these five Marines were no exception,” President Biden said. “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.”
Helicopter Crash
The Marines were conducting a training exercise when the incident happened.
They departed on a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter from Creech Air Force Base in Clark County, Nevada, and were supposed to land at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in California on Feb. 6, a Marines spokesman said.
By Allen Zhong
