“Final Salute to U.S. Air Force Major Luke A. Unrath: Loved Ones Gather to Honor Fallen Hero Killed in Osprey Crash”

Accident – death – Obituary News : Loved ones gathered in Riverside, California, to pay their final respects to U.S. Air Force Maj. Luke A. Unrath, who tragically lost his life in an Osprey crash in Japan on November 29. The procession to honor Unrath took place on December 13, starting from the Los Angeles International Airport and ending at a mortuary in his hometown. The solemn event drew a large crowd of servicemembers, community members, and residents who lined the streets to show their support.

Unrath, a 34-year-old Southern California native, was one of eight U.S. military service members who perished in the crash. The procession began with the unloading of a flag-draped casket from an aircraft, followed by its placement into a hearse. As servicemembers stood at attention, the community members and residents displayed their solidarity by lining the streets.

Sue Holley, a Riverside resident, expressed her support for the fallen Air Force major and his grieving family. “They need all the support we can give them right now,” she said. “He deserves all the respect I can give him, and just by standing here is my way of giving my respect to the man.”

Unrath’s untimely death has deeply affected his loved ones and the community. Carissa Brown, a former classmate, described him as “the sweetest person with the sweetest family, the most kind and loving family.” Unrath’s parents released a statement, highlighting their son’s exemplary character and dedication to helping others. They also mentioned that Unrath was a triplet who shared a close bond with his siblings.

The cause of the Osprey crash is still under investigation. The Air Force Special Operations Command has stated that preliminary investigation information suggests a potential materiel failure as the cause of the mishap. However, the underlying cause of the failure remains unknown at this time.

The U.S.-made Osprey is a unique hybrid aircraft that combines the vertical takeoff and landing capabilities of a helicopter with the forward propulsion and higher cruising speed of an airplane. Following the crash, the U.S. military grounded all Ospreys, and it is expected to remain in place until the cause of the accident is determined.

In addition to Maj. Unrath, the other seven servicemembers who lost their lives in the tragic crash were Maj. Jeffrey T. Hoernemann, Maj. Eric V. Spendlove, Capt. Terrell K. Brayman, Tech. Sgt. Zachary E. Lavoy, Staff Sgt. Jake M. Turnage, Senior Airman Brian K. Johnson, and Staff Sgt. Jacob “Jake” M. Galliher.

As the investigation continues, the community in Riverside and beyond will continue to honor the memory of these brave service members and offer support to their families during this difficult time..