(AmericanProsperity.com) – Underscoring the risks our brave military personnel face every day, two Navy aviators died when their EA-18G Growler jet crashed during a routine training exercise near Mount Rainier in Washington.
The U.S. Navy confirmed the deaths of two crew members after their jet crashed in a remote, steep and heavily wooded area about 6,000 feet up near Mount Rainier.
The crew members were aboard a $67 million EA-18G Growler, an F/A-18 variant used for electronic warfare.
The incident happened around 175 miles south of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, where the Electronic Attack Squadron is based.
Commander Timothy Warburton expressed the Navy’s grief, stating, “It is with a heavy heart that we share the loss of two beloved Zappers.”
He added, “Our priority right now is taking care of the families of our fallen aviators and ensuring the well-being of our Sailors and the Growler community. We are grateful for the ongoing teamwork to safely recover the deceased.”
The search and rescue operation, which later turned into a recovery mission, was challenging due to the difficult terrain and snow-covered crash site.
Army Special Forces and specialized mountaineering soldiers were called in to assist in locating the crew members, showcasing the inter-service cooperation that defines the military’s strength.
The loss is particularly dramatic because the squadron recently returned from a combat deployment that included operations against Houthi rebels in Yemen.
During this deployment, the squadron achieved notable distinctions, including the first air-to-air kill in a Growler and the first use of an Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile in combat.
As the Navy continues to “search the expansive area, recovering debris and planning for the long-term salvage and recovery effort,” Americans are reminded of the constant sacrifices made by men and women in uniform.
This incident marks the first major mishap involving a Navy jet this year and serves as a stark reminder of the risks in maintaining the nation’s military readiness.
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