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Accident – death – Obituary News : OVIEDO, Fla. — Tragedy struck the Air Force community last week as an aircraft crash near Japan claimed the lives of eight airmen, one of whom was a dedicated sergeant from Central Florida. The Air Force Special Operations Command announced on Tuesday that Tech Sgt. Zachary Lavoy, a 33-year-old medical operations flight chief assigned to the 1st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing at Kadena Air Base in Japan, was among the fallen heroes.
The recovery operation, which began as an intensive search and rescue effort, has now shifted its focus to locating and recovering the remains of all eight airmen and the aircraft debris. While the remains of three airmen have been recovered and three others have been located and are in the process of being recovered, search crews are still working tirelessly to locate the remaining two.
The other airmen who lost their lives in the tragic crash have been identified as Maj. Jeffrey Hoernemann (32) of Andover, Minnesota, Maj. Eric Spendlove (36) of St. George, Utah, Maj. Luke Unrath (34) of Riverside, California, Capt. Terrell Brayman (32) of Pittsford, New York, Staff Sgt. Jake Turnage (25) of Kennesaw, Georgia, and Senior Airman Brian Johnson (32) of Reynoldsburg, Ohio. The remains of Staff Sgt. Jake Galliher were recovered on the day of the crash.
According to Air Force Special Operations Command, the crew was conducting a routine training mission near Yakushima Island on November 29 when the mishap occurred. The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation.
Air Force Special Operations Commander Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind expressed his condolences, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, and peers of all who are impacted by this mishap and loss of life. In times like these, where service to our nation is not just a personal commitment but also a legacy woven into the fabric of our families, the depth of sorrow is immeasurable. The honorable service of these eight Airmen to this great Nation will never be forgotten, as they are now among the giants who shape our history.”
The CV-22B Osprey, the aircraft involved in the crash, is known for its hybrid design that allows it to take off and land like a helicopter but also rotate its propellers mid-flight to a forward position, enabling it to fly at higher speeds like an airplane.
The recovery effort is being supported by Japan’s Coast Guard and Self-Defense Forces, along with the United States Pacific Air Forces and Pacific Fleet.
This devastating incident serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by our brave servicemen and women in their dedication to protecting our nation. The loss of these eight airmen is a heartbreaking blow to their families, friends, and the entire Air Force community. As the recovery operation continues, the nation stands united in honoring their memory and expressing gratitude for their selfless service.
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