Grieving Family Members Urge Military Action Following Tragic Helicopter Crash
Fatal Accident Underlines Ongoing Concerns About Military Safety
Grieving family members of the five Marines who tragically lost their lives during a helicopter crash in California are demanding increased attention and action regarding fatal and unnecessary accidents in the military. The devastating incident occurred earlier this week amidst a deadly storm, reinforcing concerns of loved ones about safety measures in the armed forces.
The Tragedy and the Call for Change
Sgt. Alec Langen, crew chief onboard the ill-fated CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter, was among those who perished. His father, Steven Langen, expressed anguish and hope for a wake-up call within the military community, emphasizing the need to prioritize the well-being of service members. Other family members and relatives echoed this sentiment, questioning the decision to fly in such hazardous weather conditions.
Poundings of Rain and Snow Lead to Disaster
The crash occurred while the group was returning to the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego from the Creech Air Force Base near Las Vegas. The flight took place during a period of unprecedented rainfall and snow that created treacherous flight conditions. The incident occurred during what some have called a “thousand-year storm,” raising concerns about the decision to take to the air in such extreme weather.
Mourning Lives Cut Short
The loss of these Marines comes on the heels of other tragic military accidents. Five Army special operations soldiers also lost their lives in a helicopter crash during a training exercise in the Mediterranean Sea a few months ago. Additionally, eight Air Force special operations service members lost their lives when their CV-22 Osprey crashed in Japan during a training exercise. These incidents, combined with the recent helicopter crash in California, highlight the urgent need to reevaluate and improve military safety protocols.
Recurring Tragedies Demand Investigation
Concerned aviation experts have previously attributed accidents like the recent helicopter crash to severe weather conditions. However, grieving family members believe that these tragedies could have been prevented. Gregory Davis, the father of Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, lamented that his son’s death lingered as a painful reminder of the fine line between avoidable and unforeseeable accidents, stressing the urgent need to prioritize the safety of all service members.
Lives Devoted to Service
Relatives of the fallen Marines shared stories of their deep-rooted military connections. Sgt. Alec Langen followed in his father’s footsteps, who proudly served as a Marines crew chief. Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, born into a Navy and Marine Corps family, was wholeheartedly dedicated to his role. Capt. Benjamin Moulton, with ambitions of becoming a Marine pilot like his grandfather, achieved excellence through his ROTC scholarship.
Honoring the Memory
The commanding general of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing expressed gratitude for the invaluable contributions of the fallen Marines. Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte emphasized their selfless service and the unwavering pride they possessed in their call to duty. It is essential to remember these brave souls and acknowledge the sacrifices they made in the line of duty.
The Post has reached out to the Marines for further comments, but no responses have been received at the time of publication. Unfortunately, the families of Capt. Jack Casey and Capt. Miguel Nava could not be reached for their perspective.
