Eight U.S. Airmen Identified in Osprey Crash; Search-and-Rescue Mission Becomes Recovery Operation

The U.S. military has identified the eight American airmen who tragically lost their lives in an Osprey aircraft crash off the coast of Japan. The search-and-rescue mission has now transitioned to a recovery operation. The incident occurred on Wednesday when a CV-22 Osprey crashed near Yakushima, an island south of Kagoshima. One airman’s remains have been recovered, but the fate of the other seven remains unknown.

President Joe Biden expressed his condolences, stating that he and First Lady Jill Biden were deeply saddened by the loss of the airmen. He emphasized the importance of supporting the families and friends affected by this terrible accident.

The U.S. Air Force has provided updates on the recovery efforts. Three airmen’s remains have been discovered, and the search continues for the others. The victims have been identified as Staff Sgt. Jake Galliher, Maj. Eric Spendlove, Maj. Luke Unrath, Capt. Terrell Brayman, Tech. Sgt. Zachary Lavoy, Staff Sgt. Jake Turnage, and Senior Airman Brian Johnson. The Air Force has stated that the crash occurred during a routine training mission but has not provided specific details about the mishap.

Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall expressed his condolences and praised the dedication of the airmen. He emphasized that the focus now is on supporting the families and honoring the memory of those who lost their lives.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin also offered his sympathies to the families and loved ones affected by the crash. He stated that the Department of Defense will conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.

The recovery operation will concentrate on locating and retrieving all remains and aircraft debris. The families of the victims have been notified, and the Pentagon continues to gather information about the crash.

This tragic accident serves as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by military personnel in the line of duty. The U.S. military and the entire Department of Defense are mourning the loss of these brave men and women.