Gov. Kotek orders half-staff flags to honor fallen Navy Cmdr. Gabriel Edwards

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Governor Tina Kotek ordered flags at Oregon public institutions to be flown at half-staff on July 29th, 2026, in solemn remembrance of U.S. Navy Commander Gabriel Edwards. Commander Edwards died on July 1st, 2026, following an emergency helicopter landing in the Arabian Sea.

Commander Edwards, a native of Oakland, Oregon, dedicated nearly two decades to military service. His career began after he graduated from Norfolk State University in 2006.

Edwards was commissioned through the Naval ROTC after earning a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from Norfolk State University. He earned his aviator “Wings of Gold” in 2008 as a helicopter pilot.

Commander Edwards served with Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 22 (HSC-22), known as the “Sea Knights.” His service was recognized with several awards for his contributions to multiple elite units.

His assignments included HSC-84, the “Red Wolves;” Naval Special Warfare Group (NSWG) four as the air-to-ground fires office and Joint Terminal Attack Controller; and HSC-85, the “Firehawks.” He assumed command of HSC-5, the “Nightdippers,” in July 2025.

Governor Kotek extended condolences to Commander Edwards' family. “On behalf of the people of Oregon, I extend our deepest condolences to the family of Commander Edwards, who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation,” Gov. Kotek said. “Commander Edwards embodied the highest ideals of duty, honor and courage during his nearly two decades of service.”

The flag should be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on July 29, 2026.