Sgt. Andrew P. Southard (top left), Sgt. Cade M. Wolfe (bottom left), Staff Sgt. Tanner W. Grone (center) Chief Warrant Officer 3 Stephen R. Dwyer (top right) and Chief Warrant Officer 2 Shane M. Barnes (bottom right).Photo:Department of Defense
Department of Defense
Five members of the U.S. armed forces were killed in a helicopter crash overVeterans Dayweekend.
The crash happened during “routine flight training” in the Mediterranean Sea on Friday, according to apress releasefrom the Department of Defense on Monday.
“The MH-60 Blackhawk was conducting aerial refueling training when the aircraft experienced an in-flight emergency resulting in the crash,” the release stated.
In astatementshared Sunday, Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III called the “training accident” a “tragic loss.”
“While we continue to gather more information about this deadly crash, it is another stark reminder that the brave men and women who defend our great nation put their lives on the line each and every day to keep our country safe,” Austin said. “They represent the best of America. We will remember their service and their sacrifice.”
“My prayers are with the patriots we have lost today and their families, loved ones and teammates,” he added.
On Sunday, PresidentJoe Bidenand First LadyJill Bidenalsopaid tributeto the fallen soldiers.
“Our service members put their lives on the line for our country every day. They willingly take risks to keep the American people safe and secure. And their daily bravery and selflessness is an enduring testament to what is best in our nation,” the statement noted.
President Joe Biden (left) and First Lady Jill Biden at the White House on Dec. 25, 2021.SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty
SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty
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“Jill and I are praying for the families and friends who have lost a precious loved one — a piece of their soul," the statement continued. “Our entire nation shares their grief. And, during this weekend when we pause to honor our nation’s veterans, we once more affirm the sacred obligation we bear to those who volunteer to serve our nation as well as their families, caregivers and survivors. We pray for the families of all our fallen warriors today and every day.”
source: people.com
