The Navy said Tuesday that a helicopter squadron commander is the sailor reported missing on July 1 when his chopper went down in the Arabian Sea.
The Navy immediately launched a search for Cmdr. Gabriel Edwards, commander of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5, covering more than 14,000 square miles. Three other crew members on the MH60-S Seahawk helicopter assigned to the USS George H.W. Bush were rescued following the emergency water landing.
The search included ships and aircraft from two carrier strike groups, two patrol squadrons flying P-8A Poseidon aircraft and the Air Force. The search was suspended after more than 100 hours.
The cause of the incident remains under investigation. There is no indication the emergency was caused by hostile action, Navy officials said Tuesday.
“The thoughts and prayers of every member of the Carrier Strike Group 10 team are with the Edwards family. While we are far from home, our heartfelt support remains at your side,” Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, commander of Carrier Strike Group 10, said in a statement.
Capt. Matthew Lewis, commander of Carrier Air Wing 7, described Cmdr. Edwards as “the epitome of selfless leadership” who had dedicated himself to service and sacrifice for two decades.
“Our deepest gratitude and sympathy go out to his family, who should know that Gabe led his squadron, the HSC-5 ‘Nightdippers,’ with integrity and fortitude, building a cohesive organization that will continue to embody the exceptional standards he set while in command and throughout his naval career,” Capt. Lewis said.
In a statement released through the Navy, Rebecca Edwards said she was grateful for those who spent “countless” hours searching for her husband after the helicopter went down.
“Gabe has dedicated his life to serving his country with honor, courage and commitment,” she said. “He led with humility, integrity, and compassion, always putting his people before himself.”
The USS George W. Bush is patrolling in the 5th Fleet’s area of operations to bolster regional maritime security and support flight operations amid heightened tensions in the Middle East.
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