Five US Marines Declared Deceased After Helicopter Vanishes in California"

Tragedy struck as a U.S. Marine Corps helicopter, a CH-53E Super Stallion, went missing during severe storms in California. The aircraft, carrying five Marines, disappeared during a routine training flight from Nevada to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar near San Diego. Following hours of intense searching by first responders, the wreckage was discovered on Wednesday, with the crew's fate confirmed the next morning.

Maj. Gen. Borgschulte, Commanding General for the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, expressed profound sadness at losing the "Flying Tigers" crew, highlighting their dedication to service. The identities of the deceased were withheld until 24 hours after all next-of-kin notifications were made, as per U.S. military protocol.

President Biden briefed on the situation, and conveyed his condolences to the families of the fallen Marines. He praised the efforts of various agencies involved in the search and recovery mission, emphasizing the exemplary service and sacrifice of the deceased.

The helicopter departed Creech Air Force Base in Nevada on Tuesday night, prompting local authorities to respond immediately upon notification of the incident. However, adverse weather conditions, exacerbated by an "atmospheric river" storm, hindered search efforts.

This tragic event evokes memories of a similar incident two months prior, when a U.S. Air Force Osprey crashed off the coast of Japan, claiming the lives of all eight crew members aboard. The loss of the CH-53E Super Stallion crew adds to the sombre toll of military aviation accidents, underscoring the risks inherent in training missions, particularly amidst adverse weather conditions.