Navy officer lost in Arabian Sea helicopter crash was from Oregon
By: Jamie Parfitt, Alma McCarty (KGW)
PORTLAND, Ore. — The U.S. Navy on Tuesday identified an officer lost when his helicopter went down in the Arabian Sea as an Oregon man. Cmdr. Gabriel Edwards was a native of Oakland, a town in Douglas County near Sutherlin.
According to the U.S. 5th Fleet, the crew of an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the USS George H.W. Bush conducted an "emergency landing" in the sea during the early morning hours of July 1. The Navy quickly recovered three of the helicopter's four crew members — search efforts continued for Edwards over the following hours and days.
In a statement Tuesday, the Navy said that search efforts continued for 102 continuous hours and overed over 14,000 square miles before they were suspended on July 5. The search involved ships and aircraft from two carrier strike groups.
“Commander Gabe Edwards was the epitome of selfless leadership, who dedicated himself to service and sacrifice for the last 20 years,” said Capt. Matthew Lewis, commander of Carrier Air Wing 7. “Our deepest gratitude and sympathy go out to his family, who should know that Gabe led his squadron, the HSC-5 'Nightdippers,' with integrity and fortitude, building a cohesive organization that will continue to embody the exceptional standards he set while in command and throughout his naval career.”
The Navy said that Edwards is survived by his wife Rebecca and two children, as well as a large extended family.
“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,” said Rebecca Edwards in a statement. “Gabe has dedicated his life to serving his country with honor, courage, and commitment. He led with humility, integrity, and compassion, always putting his people before himself. To those who served alongside him, he was a respected leader and mentor. To our family, he is the love of my life, an extraordinary father to his children, and the foundation of our home. His greatest joy was always his family.”
Edwards graduated from Norfolk State University in 2006 and became commissioned as an officer through the Naval ROTC. After earning his wings in 2008 and flying helicopters for years, Edwards took command of his squadron, the HSC-5 Nightdippers, last July. He was up for promotion to captain in the coming fiscal year.
According to the Navy, Edwards had received the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (three awards), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (two awards), and various unit and campaign awards.
“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,” said Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, commander of CSG 10. “Gabe’s legacy as a husband, father, friend and fearless leader will never be forgotten. We are thankful to each who carry a unique and indelible part of Gabe’s memory with us as we continue this important mission.”
The cause of the helicopter crash is still under investigation, according to the Navy, but there is no indication that it was caused by hostile action.
