MINISTERIUM — Five soldiers were killed during military aircraft training over the Mediterranean Sea, according to confirmation from the Department of Defense on Monday. One of the soldiers who perished was a Minnesotan.
The DOD claims that on Friday, while the soldiers were practicing aerial refueling in an MH-60 Blackhawk, the aircraft “experienced an in-flight emergency” that led to the crash. According to the DOD, there are no signs indicating that hostile or enemy activity caused the crash.
The five fallen service members were special operations forces, according to a U.S. official who previously verified to CBS News that they had been sent to Cyprus in case Israel or Lebanon had to be evacuated.
On Monday, the DOD revealed the names of the deceased, which included Mankato, Minnesota resident Sgt. Cade M. Wolfe, 24.
The other combatants were recognized as:
- Stephen R. Dwyer, 38, of Clarksville, Tennessee, is the Chief Warrant Officer 3.
- Shane M. Barnes, a 34-year-old Chief Warrant Officer from Sacramento, California.
- Tanner W. Grone, 26, a staff sergeant from Gorham, New Hampshire.
- 27-year-old Apache Junction, Arizona, Sgt. Andrew P. Southard.
The U.S. Army’s Combat Readiness Center is looking into the crash, according to the DOD.
After Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7, the Defense Department dispatched more American forces to the region.
In the days following the attack, the USS Gerald R. Ford and its strike group were sent to the eastern Mediterranean.
In response to an increase in attacks by Iran-backed Shia militia groups on American military bases in Iraq and Syria in recent weeks, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower and its strike group were dispatched to the Persian Gulf.
POTUS and Secretary of Defense statements
Regarding the deadly helicopter accident on Sunday, President Joe Biden issued a statement. See it all below in full.
“Jill and I are in mourning today for the five American service members who lost their lives when their plane went down in the Mediterranean Sea while on a routine training mission. Every day, our service members risk their lives in defense of our nation. They gladly assume risks in order to maintain the safety and security of the American people. And their unwavering daily bravery and selflessness serve as a timeless example of the best aspects of our country. Jill and I are offering prayers for the friends and families who have lost a loved one who held a special place in their hearts. Our country is grieving with them. And as we take a moment this weekend to remember our country’s veterans, we reaffirm the sacred duty we have to those who volunteer to serve our country, their families, caregivers, and survivors. Every day and every day, we offer prayers to the families of all of our fallen warriors.”
Additionally, on Sunday, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin III issued a statement.
“We lament the senseless deaths of five American service members in a late-night training accident in the Mediterranean Sea on Friday.
“Even though we are still learning details about this tragic collision, it serves as yet another sobering reminder that the courageous men and women who protect our wonderful country risk their lives every single day to ensure its security. The best of America is what they stand for. Their sacrifice and service will live on in our memories.
“My prayers are with the patriots we have lost today and their families, loved ones, and teammates.”
