U.S. Navy Loses Two Aviators In Fatal Training Flight Crash Near Mount Rainier

Two United States Navy pilots were declared dead after their EA-18G Growler fighter jet crashed in hilly terrain east of Mount Rainier, Washington.

The crash happened on October 15, 2024, and the authorities launched an extensive search operation in the area. The U.S. Navy declared the pilots dead on Sunday after days of searching.

The two highly skilled U.S. Naval Aviators, Lieutenant Commander Miley Evans and Lieutenant Serena Dug Wileman, tragically lost their lives during a routine training flight.

Both the officers were honoured for their service and contributions to the Navy, not only for their operational excellence but also for their leadership and mentoring roles within their squadron and across the Naval aviation community.

The two aviators had just returned from a demanding deployment with Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130, also known as the Zappers.

They spent nine months at sea as part of Carrier Air Wing Three (CVW-3) on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), mainly operating from the Red Sea.

During this deployment, they played crucial roles in operations like INHERENT RESOLVE, POSEIDON ARCHER, and PROSPERITY GUARDIAN, among the most intense combat missions recently.

Evans and Wileman have both received recognition for their contributions. Lieutenant Commander Miley Evans, an Electronic Warfare Officer (EWO) aboard the EA-18G Growler, coordinated and carried out combat attacks on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen.

Her leadership as VAQ 130’s training officer contributed to developing new warfare techniques crucial in safeguarding the entire strike group from threats.

Evans received two Single-Action Air medals and three Strike Flight Air Medals for her exemplary combat missions.

Lieutenant Serena Dug Wileman was also a strong leader in her squadron. She flew several combat flights over Yemen and served as Officer in Charge of VAQ-130’s “Dirt Det” operations, successfully directing the detachment under challenging circumstances.

Wileman was a qualified Landing Signal Officer (LSO) in charge of successfully recovering aircraft aboard the carrier, especially during high-pressure combat situations.

Evans and Wileman were outstanding in combat and left a lasting impression on their teammates. Both were humble, strong, and compassionate commanders who genuinely cared about their fellow sailors.

Capt. Marvin Scott, Commander of CVW-3, remembered their persistence and contributions to naval aviation. Scott says both aviators were known for their professionalism and leadership.

Reference: DvidsHub

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