Five American servicemembers killed in helicopter crash during training exercise in the Mediterranean

Accident – Death – Obituary News : Five American servicemembers tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash during a routine training exercise in the eastern Mediterranean, according to the Pentagon. The incident occurred on Friday evening when the MH-60 Blackhawk helicopter crashed into the ocean during a routine air refueling mission. All five servicemembers onboard the aircraft were killed.

The identities of the victims have been released as Chief Warrant Officer 3 Stephen R Dwyer, 38, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Shane M Barnes, 34, Staff Sgt Tanner W Grone, 26, Sgt Andrew P Southard, 27, and Sgt Cade M Wolfe, 24. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation, but Defense Department officials have stated that the crew experienced an in-flight emergency, which led to the fatal incident.

US European Command (EUCOM) emphasized that the crash was unrelated to military operations in the Middle East and there were no indications of hostile activity. The helicopter was solely engaged in training at the time of the accident. Search and rescue efforts were immediately initiated after the crash, although it has not been confirmed whether any remains of the servicemembers have been recovered.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin expressed his condolences and admiration for the servicemembers, stating, “While we continue to gather more information about this deadly crash, it is another stark reminder that the brave men and women who defend our great nation put their lives on the line each and every day to keep our country safe. They represent the best of America. We will remember their service and their sacrifice.”

President Joe Biden also released a statement mourning the loss of the American airmen, who tragically died just hours before the country celebrated Veterans Day. He and First Lady Jill Biden expressed their deepest sympathies for the families and friends of the fallen servicemembers, saying, “Our entire nation shares their grief.”

The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by military personnel in the line of duty. As investigations into the cause of the crash continue, the military community and the nation as a whole stand in solidarity with the families of the fallen servicemembers.

If you have any information related to this incident, please contact our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk. Additionally, you can submit any videos or pictures related to the crash here.

For the latest news updates, follow Metro.co.uk on Twitter and Facebook. You can also receive Metro.co.uk articles directly to your device by signing up for our daily push alerts here..