In a heartbreaking incident, five U.S. Marines lost their lives when their CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter crashed during a storm near San Diego. The tragic event occurred as the helicopter was returning to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar after training at Creech Air Force Base.
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Military Confirms Deaths of Outstanding Marines in CH-53E Super Stallion Crash
The military confirmed the deaths, expressing deep sadness for the loss of these outstanding Marines from the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. The helicopter went missing late Tuesday night during the storm near San Diego, prompting a search operation that faced challenges due to the stormy conditions in the Southern California mountains.
President Joe Biden, along with the first lady, expressed their heartbreak and condolences to the families, acknowledging the sacrifice of these brave service members amid the storm near San Diego. The last contact with the helicopter was reported around 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday, and the wreckage was discovered near Pine Valley, an hour’s drive from San Diego, amidst the storm.
The military identified the fallen Marines as members of Miramar’s Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361. The Super Stallion, designed for harsh conditions, disappeared during an intense storm that brought heavy snow and record rain to California.
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Recovery Efforts Begin Amid Storm Near San Diego, Highlighting Inherent Risks in Military Service
Despite the challenging weather and rugged terrain, recovery efforts for the remains of the fallen Marines have begun amid the storm near San Diego. An investigation into the crash is also underway. The Super Stallion, the largest helicopter in the military, has been utilized by the Marines for heavy-lifting duties globally for over three decades.
The tragic incident during the storm near San Diego is a reminder of the inherent risks associated with military service, and the military community, along with federal, state, and local agencies, is working together to navigate the challenging conditions for recovery. The CH-53E Super Stallion, nicknamed the “hurricane maker,” has been involved in several deadly accidents over the years, emphasizing the dangers faced by military personnel even during routine training missions.
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