U.S. Navy Identifies Missing Sailor After Helicopter Incident in Arabian Sea

On Tuesday, the U.S. Navy identified Cmdr. Gabriel Edwards as the sailor who went missing following a helicopter emergency landing in the Arabian Sea on July 1.

Cmdr. Edwards was leading Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5 when an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter went down. Three of the four crew members were rescued at sea. The search for Edwards concluded after more than 102 hours, as announced by the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command on Sunday.

Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, commander of Carrier Strike Group 10, expressed support for Edwards’ family. He stated, “The thoughts and prayers of every member of the Carrier Strike Group 10 team are with the Edwards family. While we are far from home, our heartfelt support remains at your side.” Cimicata described Edwards as a “fearless leader” whose legacy will be remembered.

Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao authorized a posthumous promotion for Edwards to his selected rank of captain. Cao acknowledged those involved in the search efforts, saying, “I am deeply grateful to every sailor and airman who took part in the search and who continue to support his family, friends, and shipmates.”

Edwards hailed from Oakland, Oregon, and had served for 20 years following his commission through the Naval ROTC, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in physics. He received his aviator “Wings of Gold” in 2008, serving in various helicopter squadrons and commands. Edwards took charge of HSC-5 in July of the previous year.

The search operation spanned more than 14,000 square miles, incorporating efforts from multiple aircraft carriers, guided-missile destroyers, helicopter squadrons, anti-submarine units, and U.S. Air Force support.

Edwards is survived by his wife, Rebecca, and two children. Rebecca Edwards conveyed her appreciation: “We are profoundly grateful to every Sailor, aviator, and Airman who devoted countless hours, extraordinary skill, and unwavering determination in the effort to bring Gabe home.” She praised Edwards for his dedication to service, leadership, and family, adding, “Gabe has dedicated his life to serving his country with honor, courage, and commitment.”

The rescued crew members were returned to the USS George H.W. Bush, the base of the helicopter. The incident’s cause is under investigation, with no evidence indicating hostile action against the helicopter, per the Navy’s report.