Search Ended For Missing RI Sailor

NORFOLK, VA — Just after sunset Friday, the Navy and Coast Guard called off the search for Petty Ofc. Christopher W. Clavin, of Lincoln. Fire Controlman 2nd Class Clavin went overboard June 6 at about 3 p.m. while Normandy was conducting training 80 miles off the coast of Cherry Point, N.C.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our shipmate, Petty Officer Chris Clavin. He was an important part of the team and a friend to so many on board,” said Capt. Derek Trinque, commanding officer of USS Normandy. “We are not alone in our grief. Our hearts and thoughts are also with Chris’s mother, sister and his entire family.”

His shipmates saw Clavin fall into the water Tuesday. Immediately, they issued a man overboard call and a massive search and rescue response involving USS Normandy, aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), with four embarked helicopters, U.S. Coast Guard medium endurance cutter USCGC Forward (WMEC 911), as well as guided missile destroyers USS Bainbridge (DDG 96), USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) and USS Mason (DDG 87). Additional Navy and Coast Guard aircraft also assisted.

The Navy and Coast Guard team spent over 76 hours in a comprehensive search that covered roughly 6,300 square miles.“I’m proud of the determined efforts of the Navy and U.S. Coast Guard search teams,” said Adm. Phil Davidson, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces. “Our thoughts are with our lost shipmate, his family, and the officers and crew of USS Normandy.”

The Normandy crew plans on conducting a memorial service for their lost shipmate.The family is requesting privacy at this time.

An investigation is currently underway.