U.S. Navy Identifies Missing Sailor After Helicopter Incident

The U.S. Navy has identified Cmdr. Gabriel Edwards as the missing sailor after a helicopter incident in the Arabian Sea on July 1. Edwards served as the commanding officer of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5. On that day, the MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter crew, consisting of four members, made an emergency water landing. Three of the crew members were rescued, but Edwards was not found.

After an extensive search lasting over 102 hours, the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command suspended the efforts. Carrier Strike Group 10 commander Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata shared condolences, expressing that the group’s thoughts and prayers are with Edwards’ family. He lauded Edwards as a ‘fearless leader.’

In honor of his service, Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao has posthumously promoted Edwards to the rank of captain. Cao expressed gratitude to all who participated in the search and continue to support Edwards’ family and colleagues.

Edwards, originally from Oakland, Oregon, served the Navy for 20 years. He held a Bachelor of Science degree in physics and was commissioned through the Naval ROTC. In 2008, Edwards earned his aviator “Wings of Gold” as a helicopter pilot. His service included HSC-22, HSC-84, Naval Special Warfare Group (NSWG) 4, and HSC-85, before he became the commanding officer of HSC-5 in July of the previous year.

The search for Edwards covered an area exceeding 14,000 square miles, utilizing aircraft carriers, guided-missile destroyers, helicopter squadrons, anti-submarine squadrons, and U.S. Air Force aircraft.

Edwards’ wife, Rebecca, and two children survive him. Rebecca expressed profound gratitude to the individuals who participated in the search and highlighted her husband’s commitment to service and family.

“Gabe dedicated his life to serving his country with honor, courage, and commitment… To our family, he is the love of my life, an extraordinary father to his children, and the foundation of our home.”

The three crew members who were rescued returned safely to the USS George H.W. Bush. The Navy has stated that the cause of the emergency landing is under investigation. They reported no indications of hostile action being involved.