SAN DIEGO —
The five MCAS Miramar-based Marines who were killed in a helicopter crash in a remote part of San Diego County in the early hours of Wednesday, February 7 have been identified.
In a statement, the Marine Corps identified the following victims of the crash:
- Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, 21, of Olathe, Kansas, a CH-53E helicopter crew chief.
- Sgt. Alec Langen, 23, of Chandler, Arizona, a CH-53E helicopter crew chief.
- Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27, of Emmett, Idaho, a CH-53E helicopter pilot.
- Capt. Jack Casey, 26, of Dover, New Hampshire, a CH-53E helicopter pilot.
- Capt. Miguel Nava, 28, of Traverse City, Michigan, a CH-53E helicopter pilot.
Donovan Davis enlisted in the Marine Corps on September 3, 2019, and was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal on January 1, 2024. His decorations include the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.
Alec Langen enlisted in the Marine Corps on September 14, 2017, and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant on October 1, 2022. His decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons.
Benjamin Moulton was commissioned in the Marine Corps on March 29, 2019, and was promoted to the rank of Captain on August 1, 2023. His decorations include the National Defense Service Medal.
Jack Casey was commissioned in the Marine Corps on May 16, 2019, and was promoted to the rank of Captain on September 1, 2023. His decorations include the National Defense Service Medal.
Miguel Nava was commissioned in the Marine Corps on May 26, 2017, and was promoted to the rank of Captain on November 1, 2021. His decorations include the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.
February 7 crash
The Marines were on a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter on a flight from Creech Air Force Base in Indian Springs, Nevada, approximately 350 miles away from MCAS Miramar in San Diego, California. Their helicopter was located on Wednesday morning after it crashed in rough terrain in Pine Valley, located near San Diego.
“We have been confronted with a tragedy that is every service family’s worst fear,” said Lt. Col. Nicholas J. Harvey, commanding officer of HMH-361. “Our top priority now is supporting the families of our fallen heroes, and we ask for your respect and understanding as they grieve. The Flying Tigers family stands strong and includes the friends and community who have supported our squadron during this challenging time. We will get through this together.”
The military helicopter that went missing early Wednesday morning was located in Pine Valley and recovery operations were immediately initiated for the five Marines onboard.
The crew was conducting unit-level training and was on their way back to base at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, defense officials said.
The San Diego Sheriff's Department was notified at about 1 a.m. on February 7 that the helicopter did not return to Miramar and was last seen near Pine Valley, about 35 miles east of San Diego.
The helicopter crew was flying during a strong winter storm which brought heavy rain, wind, and snow to Southern California.
The location was described as very remote and rugged terrain. Cal Fire Captain Mike Cornette said the snow, mud, and rain made it difficult to even get to the site. He said Cal Fire crews responded to the scene on foot Tuesday night but had to pull back to get more resources.
Sgt. Alec Langen's family talks to CBS 8
Elizabeth Langen spoke to CBS 8 from the family's home in Chandler, Arizona, a suburb of Phoenix. She said her brother followed in their father's footsteps and became a Marine. It was his lifelong dream.
"He was a rock, he was a rock for our family, for [his wife] Casey. He was a rock for so many men in the Marines," she said tearfully. "It's never going to be the same without him."
She said her brother was a newlywed, he just got married a month ago in Sedona to the love of his life. She said that's the last time she got to spend time alone with him.
She said her brother was funny, smart, and always knew how to make the best of every situation. Even though he was terrible at soccer, she said he loved being a soccer referee.
"I just want people to hug their family a little bit closer, call them, text them and just be there for them. The world works in mysterious ways and some day they may not be there," she said.
WATCH: Col. James C. Ford, 3rd MAW operations officer gives update on recovery efforts for 5 Marines killed in CA helicopter (Feb. 8, 3:30 p.m.)
Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte, commanding general of the 3rd MAW issued the following statement after confirming that the Marines onboard had died,
“It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I share the loss of five outstanding Marines from 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and the “Flying Tigers” while conducting a training flight last night. These pilots and crewmembers were serving a calling greater than self and were proud to do so. We will forever be grateful for their call to duty and selfless service. To the families of our fallen Marines, we send our deepest condolences and commit to ensuring your support and care during this incredibly difficult time.”