Tragedy strikes as 5 missing marines found dead after helicopter crash in California

Tragic news hit the military community as officials confirmed on Thursday morning that the five Marines who went missing aboard a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter have been found dead. The Marines were conducting a training exercise, flying from Nevada to California when they reported their last-known location at around 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

Discovery of the crashed helicopter

The crashed helicopter was located in a rugged area east of San Diego at around 9 a.m. on Wednesday. The Marines, assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, have not been identified, following standard military protocol. Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte expressed profound sadness and sent condolences to the families of the fallen Marines, praising their selfless service.

National mourning

President Joe Biden also addressed the crash, extending his deepest condolences and affirming the nation's sacred obligation to military members and their families. Efforts to recover the bodies of the Marines and the helicopter equipment are underway, while an investigation into the crash is ongoing.