Capt. Jack Casey : “New Hampshire Marine among 5 killed in California helicopter crash”

Dover Marine Among Five killed in California Helicopter Crash

Dover, New Hampshire – The Marine Corps announced on Friday that one of the five Marines killed in a tragic helicopter crash in California was from New Hampshire. Captain Jack Casey, 26, of Dover, New Hampshire, was part of a group on a training flight when their CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter went missing during a storm. The wreckage was later discovered in the mountainous area east of San Diego, with no survivors found.

A Promising Career Cut Short

Captain Casey, a highly accomplished individual, had recently been promoted to Captain in September 2023 after being commissioned in May 2019. He was one of three CH-53E helicopter pilots on board at the time of the crash. Casey’s military decorations included the National Defense Service Medal, a testament to his dedication and service to his country.

Casey hailed from Dover, New Hampshire, where his extended family is well-known in the community. Mayor Bob Carrier expressed the city’s deep sorrow, stating, “Any veteran or service person who dies in the line of duty is a dark day in the city of Dover. Our hearts are heavy with that.”

A Life of Service and Leadership

Graduating from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Dover, Casey was known as a leader who actively participated in sports and other extracurricular activities. Paul Marquis, the president of St. Thomas Aquinas High School, spoke highly of Casey, saying, “He gave back and lived a life of service. He left his legacy here and he’ll do that across the country.”

A Nation in Mourning

The loss of Captain Jack Casey has deeply impacted not only his family and community but also the entire country. New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu expressed his condolences, stating, “Valerie and I are deeply saddened as we mourn the loss of these five Marines. Capt. Jack Casey’s death is a profound loss for his family, his community, New Hampshire, and the country.”

In honor of Casey’s sacrifice, flags will be flown at half-staff, and the Dover community is making preparations to pay tribute to their native son. Mayor Carrier remarked, “It touches me personally; you never know what will happen when you’re doing your duty.”

A Devastating Loss

In the wake of this tragic incident, Lt. Col. Nicholas J. Harvey, commanding officer of the squadron, expressed his grief and emphasized the importance of supporting the families of the fallen heroes. He stated, “Our top priority now is supporting the families of our fallen heroes. The Flying Tigers family stands strong, and we will get through this together.”

The cause of the helicopter crash is still under investigation, leaving the families and the community searching for answers and seeking solace during this difficult time.