Internet mourns death of 5 Marines aboard missing helicopter that crashed in California

PINE VALLEY, CALIFORNIA: A routine training flight turned tragic this week as a military helicopter carrying five US Marines crashed in a remote area of California, killing all on board. The CH-53E Super Stallion went down early Wednesday morning, February 7, during storms in the Pine Valley region, about 35 miles from San Diego.

Authorities launched search and rescue efforts at the crash site located east of Camp Pendleton after the helicopter failed to return to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. The accident claimed the lives of five Marines attached to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing when their helicopter crashed amid poor weather conditions, as per People.

Marines were conducting routine training flight when the helicopter crashed

Major General Michael J Borgschulte, commanding general of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, shared in a statement on Thursday, February 8, that the Marines were part of a helicopter squadron called 'Flying Tigers' that conducts operations around the world.

"These pilots and crew members were serving a calling greater than self and were proud to do so," Borgschulte said. "We will forever be grateful for their call to duty and selfless service."

The Marine helicopter took off from Creech Air Force Base in Nevada on Tuesday evening, February 6, and was headed to MCAS Miramar when it crashed early Wednesday morning. Pine Valley is located about 35 miles east of San Diego and the helicopter went down in a remote area.

Authorities received a call around 1 a.m. Wednesday that the helicopter was overdue and missing. Search and rescue teams located the downed aircraft at approximately 9:15 a.m.

Major General Borgschulte said the Marines were conducting a routine training flight when the Super Stallion helicopter crashed under unknown circumstances. Weather conditions in the area were poor at the time, with rain, low cloud cover, and limited visibility. An investigation into the specific cause of the accident is underway.

Identities of Marines yet to be released 

Efforts to recover the remains of the five Marines commenced on Thursday, along with operations to retrieve equipment and material evidence from the crash site.

Major General Borgschulte said the identities of the Marines will not be released until their next of kin have been properly notified.

"To the families of our fallen Marines, we send our deepest condolences and commit to ensuring your support and care during this incredibly difficult time," he stated.

Internet mourns tragic deaths of US marines 

As news of the tragic helicopter crash in Pine Valley, California, spread across the internet, an outpouring of heartfelt reactions flooded social media platforms. One Facebook user solemnly expressed, "Thoughts and prayers for families of the fallen Marines. Thank you for your service. RIP."

Another user, struck by the magnitude of the loss, conveyed, "Thanks for your service and dedication. As a MoM, this hits and hurts badly. Brave men, may they rest in peace and be honored for their bravery."

A third user extended heartfelt condolences, writing, "Condolences to family and friends," while another empathetically remarked, "So heartbreaking, prayers go out to all affected families."

Reflecting the collective sentiment of sorrow, a fifth user simply stated, "So sad. So heartbreaking."

In a poignant tribute to the fallen heroes, a sixth user offered a solemn prayer, saying, "May their souls Rest In Peace!"

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.