The Navy confirmed that the remains of two aviators who died in a jet crash in Washington state will be returning home soon. Lt. Serena Wileman, a California native, and Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay Evans will have their remains sent back to their families in a private affair. The crash occurred on Oct. 15, east of Mount Rainier, and the cause is currently under investigation. Evans, a naval flight officer, had previously made history as part of an all-female team of pilots that conducted a flyover at Super Bowl LVII to celebrate 50 years of women flying in the Navy.
The first female candidates entered the U.S. Navy flight school in 1973, paving the way for women like Wileman to become naval aviators. Wileman was commissioned in 2018 and joined the Zapper squadron based on Whidbey Island in 2021. She had received several commendations for her service, including the National Defense Service Medal and the Combat Action Ribbon. The EA-18G Growler, the aircraft they were flying, is a crucial asset for providing tactical jamming and electronic protection to U.S. forces and their allies, according to Boeing, the manufacturer.
The crash site, located at around 6,000 feet in a remote and heavily wooded area, has posed challenges for recovery efforts. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, and details will be released once the findings are determined. Both Wileman and Evans were experienced aviators who had dedicated their careers to serving in the Navy. The tragic loss of these two individuals has deeply impacted their colleagues and the Naval community, who are mourning their deaths and honoring their contributions to the service.
The return of their remains to their families marks a somber moment as loved ones prepare to say goodbye to these two brave aviators. The Navy is providing support to the families during this difficult time, ensuring that the process is handled with respect and care. The legacy of Wileman and Evans will be remembered by their fellow service members and the wider community, as they made significant contributions to their squadron and the Navy as a whole. Their dedication to duty and sacrifice will not be forgotten.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the Navy will work to determine the cause of the tragedy and take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. Safety measures and protocols will be reviewed to ensure the well-being of all aviators and personnel. The Navy remains committed to honoring the memory of Wileman and Evans, ensuring that their service and sacrifice are never forgotten. The return of their remains marks the beginning of the grieving process for their families, friends, and colleagues, as they come to terms with the loss of these two remarkable individuals.
