Tragic Helicopter Crash Claims Lives of Five US Marines in Pine Valley
In a devastating incident, five US Marines lost their lives when their CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter crashed during a training flight in a remote area of Southern California on Tuesday night. The tragic news was confirmed by a news release from their Marine Corps unit.
Efforts are currently underway to recover the remains of the fallen Marines, following the discovery of the helicopter in Pine Valley, a mountainous area about 30 miles east of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego. The crash occurred as the helicopter was en route from Creech Air Force Base near Las Vegas to its destination.
The identities of the Marines will be withheld until 24 hours after their families have been notified, according to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. The helicopter, assigned to Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, was found during a multi-agency search effort hampered by heavy snow conditions.
Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte, commanding general of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, expressed gratitude for the service of the pilots and crewmembers, stating, “These pilots and crewmembers were serving a calling greater than self and were proud to do so.”
The crash, which occurred amid gusty winds and precipitation, is currently under investigation. The CH-53E Super Stallion is a heavy-lift helicopter capable of transporting troops and equipment, and it can carry up to 16 tons of cargo, as noted by the US Navy.
President Joe Biden, in a statement on Thursday morning, mourned the loss of the Marines. He expressed being "heartbroken" and extended condolences to the families, squadron, and the entire US Marine Corps. The Department of Defense continues to assess the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
This unfortunate event recalls previous accidents involving Super Stallion helicopters, including a 2016 collision off Hawaii that claimed 12 Marines' lives and a 2018 crash near El Centro, California, resulting in the loss of four crew members. President Biden acknowledged the sacrifices of these warriors, emphasizing the nation's grief over the loss of five exemplary servicemen.