Search Efforts Continue for Missing Aviator
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS100331-02
Release Date: 3/31/2010 12:52:00 PM
From U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs
MANAMA, Bahrain (NNS) -- Search and rescue efforts continue for a missing crew member of an aircraft that crashed in the North Arabian Sea March 31.
After radioing USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) of the intent to conduct a controlled bailout, an E-2C Hawkeye from the Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121 impacted the water approximately five miles from the ship.
The E-2C was returning from conducting operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) when the aircraft experienced mechanical malfunctions.
Two of the four crew members were rescued by an H-60 Seahawk helicopter from the Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 5, and an H-60 helicopter from Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 26 rescued the third crew member. All three are in good condition without significant injuries.
Search and rescue efforts for the fourth crew member continue. In addition to Eisenhower and her embarked aircraft, helicopters from guided missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64) and replenishment ship, USNS Supply (T-AOE 6), along with other air assets that include KC-10 and KC-135 tankers, P-3, U-2 and RC-135 aircraft are assisting in the search effort.
The identities of the crewmen involved are being withheld pending notification of next-of-kin.
The incident is under investigation.
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