On July 1, a MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, with a crew of four, made an emergency landing in the Arabian Sea. The U.S. Navy identified Cmdr. Gabriel Edwards as the missing sailor from this incident. Edwards served as the commanding officer of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5.
Three crew members were rescued, but the search for Edwards was suspended after more than 102 hours. Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata from Carrier Strike Group 10 expressed support for the family of Cmdr. Edwards, remembering him as a fearless leader.
Edwards, originally from Oakland, Oregon, spent 20 years serving in the Navy and earned his aviator “Wings of Gold” in 2008. He held various roles within helicopter and special warfare groups before assuming command of HSC-5 last year.
The extensive search covered over 14,000 square miles, involving multiple naval and air force units. Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao announced posthumous promotion for Edwards to the rank of captain, recognizing his dedication and leadership.
Rebecca Edwards, his wife, expressed gratitude towards those involved in the search. She highlighted Cmdr. Edwards’ commitment to his country and the impact he had on those who served with him and his family. He is remembered as a mentor and loving father.
The rescued crew members returned to the USS George H.W. Bush. The investigation into the helicopter’s emergency landing is ongoing, with no signs of hostile actions involved.