Authorities confirmed that the five US Marines were aboard a military helicopter that fell in the mountains near San Diego They were found dead. The Marines are conducting a “routine training flight” from Creech Air Force Base in Las Vegas to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego, They were reported missing on Tuesday. after the 3rd wing of a naval aircraft.
With regret, Maj. Gen. Borgschulte, commanding general of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, mourned the loss of the five Marines and expressed his condolences to the families. “We extend our deepest condolences to the families of our fallen Marines and are committed to ensuring your support and caring during this incredibly difficult time,” he said.
The plane was discovered in Pine Valley, California, about 72 kilometers (45 miles) east of San Diego. just after 9 a.m. Wednesday. Adverse weather conditions due to a historic storm in California complicated search and rescue.
Although the aircraft’s status and exact departure time from Nevada were not announced, The last known contact with the helicopter occurred around 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The storm, which brought heavy rain and record-breaking snowfall, made it difficult for emergency responders to access the area.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, Civil Air Patrol, United States Border Patrol Search, Trauma and Rescue (BORSTAR) Unit, Cal Fire San Diego and the United States Forest Service are participating in the extensive search effort. To overcome the difficult terrain and poor weather conditions, various vehicles and drones are used.
The helicopter the Marines flew a CH-53E Super Stallion, known as a “heavy-lift helicopter,” It has the capacity to transport troops, equipment and supplies in adverse conditions. The investigation into the causes of the accident is ongoing.
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