A U.S. Air Force CV-22 Osprey crashed off the shore of Yakushima Island, Japan.
After an intensive search and rescue operation, the transition to search and recovery was made, as the likelihood of finding survivors diminished.
One airman’s body was recovered, and the status of the others was changed to deceased. (Trending: Trump Announces Major Promise For 2024)
Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, Air Force Special Operations Command commander, said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends and peers of all who are impacted by this mishap and loss of life.”
“In times like these, where service to our nation is not just a personal commitment but also a legacy woven into the fabric of our families, the depth of sorrow is immeasurable,” he continued.
Adding, “The honorable service of these eight Airmen to this great Nation will never be forgotten, as they are now among the giants who shape our history.”
The deceased were then identified as:
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jake Galliher, of Pittsfield, Massachusetts
U.S. Air Force Maj. Jeffrey T. Hoernemann, 32, of Andover, Minnesota
U.S. Air Force Maj. Eric V. Spendlove, 36, of St. George, Utah
U.S. Air Force Maj. Luke A. Unrath, 34, of Riverside, California
U.S. Air Force Capt. Terrell K. Brayman, 32, of Pittsford, New York
U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Zachary E. Lavoy, 33, of Oviedo, Florida
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jake M. Turnage, 25, of Kennesaw, Georgia
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Brian K. Johnson, 32, of Reynoldsburg, Ohio
“On behalf of all of the joint U.S. teammates actively involved in the search, we want to extend our sincere gratitude to the Government of Japan’s Self Defense Force, Coast Guard, law enforcement, mariners, and local Yakushima civilian volunteers for their tireless assistance in the search and rescue operations for our Airmen,” said Rear Adm. Jeromy Williams.
“Their selfless dedication in our time of need demonstrates the ironclad bond between our nations. We are resolved to locating our aircrew and bringing them home to their families,” declared Williams.
The identities of the deceased service members were released.
Recovery efforts, involving U.S. and Japanese military personnel, are ongoing.
The military expressed gratitude for the assistance received from Japanese authorities and local volunteers in the search and rescue operations.
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