5 Marines Killed In Helicopter Crash In San Diego County Identified

SAN DIEGO, CA — Military officials have publicly identified the five Marines killed in a helicopter crash Tuesday during stormy weather in rural San Diego County.

The Marines were identified as:

• 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.

They were assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and were based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in 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," Harvey said. "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 Marines were flying a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter that left Creech Air Force Base near Las Vegas for a routine flight training and was headed to MCAS Miramar. The aircraft was "reported overdue" late Tuesday, according to the U.S. Marine Corps.

Civil authorities found the aircraft shortly after 9 a.m. Wednesday in the mountainous area of Pine Valley, according to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, which led the search. The San Diego County Sheriff's Department, Cal Fire San Diego, Border Patrol, Forest Service and other agencies also helped search the area.

The crash remains under investigation.

Flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space were flown at half-staff in honor of the fallen Marines.

"California joins the nation in mourning the tremendous loss of these Marines," Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a statement Thursday.

"Jennifer and I send our heartfelt condolences to their families, loved ones, and fellow service members during this painful time," Newsom said. "Their dedication to serving our country will always be remembered."

MCAS Miramar released additional information about the Marines killed in the crash:

Donovan Davis enlisted in the Marine Corps on Sept. 3, 2019, and was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal on Jan. 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 Sept. 14, 2017, and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant on Oct. 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 commissioned in the Marine Corps on March 29, 2019, and was promoted to the rank of Captain on Aug. 1, 2023. His decorations include the National Defense Service Medal.

Jack Casey commissioned in the Marine Corps on May 16, 2019, and was promoted to the rank of Captain on Sept. 1, 2023. His decorations include the National Defense Service Medal.

Miguel Nava commissioned in the Marine Corps on May 26, 2017, and was promoted to the rank of Captain on Nov. 1, 2021. His decorations include the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.