Search for Missing Navy Aircrewman
Chief National Security Correspondent Jennifer Griffin provides an update on the search for a missing U.S. Navy aircrewman. The incident occurred in the Arabian Sea following a Seahawk helicopter’s emergency water landing from the USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier.
The U.S. Navy named Cmdr. Gabriel Edwards as the sailor lost at sea. Edwards served as the commanding officer of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5 (HSC-5). He went missing after the helicopter’s emergency water landing on July 1.
Search Efforts and Suspension
Of the helicopter’s four crew members, three have been recovered successfully. The Navy has now suspended the search efforts on Sunday. The search lasted over 102 hours and covered upwards of 14,000 square miles.
“The thoughts and prayers of every member of the Carrier Strike Group 10 team are with the Edwards family,” stated Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, commander of Carrier Strike Group 10.
Cimicata highlighted the significant efforts made by those involved in the search.
Posthumous Promotion
Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao announced that Edwards would receive a posthumous promotion to captain. Cmdr. Gabriel Edwards hailed from Oakland, Oregon, and graduated from Norfolk State University in 2006. He became a Navy helicopter pilot in 2008 and led HSC-5 starting July 2025.
Family and Legacy
Edwards is survived by his wife, Rebecca, and their two children. Rebecca expressed profound gratitude to those involved in the search efforts.
“Gabe has dedicated his life to serving his country with honor, courage, and commitment,” she shared.
Rebecca highlighted his qualities as a leader and family man.
Career Highlights
Edwards accrued over 2,000 flight hours on various Navy helicopter platforms. He had been selected for promotion to captain.
Assistance and Investigation
HSC-5 is deployed to the Middle East aboard the USS George H.W. Bush. Mental health professionals, chaplains, and support personnel are available for the squadron and crew.
The Navy is investigating the incident’s cause and confirmed no hostile actions led to the emergency water landing.