TACOMA, Wash. (RTW News) — The U.S. Army has released the names of the four soldiers who died on Wednesday when their MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crashed during a training exercise near Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state. The deceased have been identified as chief warrant officer Andrew Cully, 35, from Sparta, Missouri; chief warrant officer Andrew Kraus, 39, from Sanibel, Florida; sergeant Donavon Scott, 25, from Tacoma; and sergeant Jadalyn Good, 23, from Mount Vernon, Washington.
According to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, the helicopter was performing a routine flight at the time of the incident, which occurred at approximately 9 p.m. While the area was experiencing clear skies with light winds, the exact cause of the crash is still under investigation.
Col. Stephen Smith referred to the soldiers as embodying the spirit of selflessness and excellence that defines the Army, commending their dedication and performance.
The 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, known for its proficiency in nighttime operations, has encountered previous tragic events, including a crash in the Eastern Mediterranean in 2023 that resulted in the loss of five soldiers during similar training exercises. As the investigation continues, the military community mourns the profound loss of these dedicated servicemen.
According to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, the helicopter was performing a routine flight at the time of the incident, which occurred at approximately 9 p.m. While the area was experiencing clear skies with light winds, the exact cause of the crash is still under investigation.
Col. Stephen Smith referred to the soldiers as embodying the spirit of selflessness and excellence that defines the Army, commending their dedication and performance.
The 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, known for its proficiency in nighttime operations, has encountered previous tragic events, including a crash in the Eastern Mediterranean in 2023 that resulted in the loss of five soldiers during similar training exercises. As the investigation continues, the military community mourns the profound loss of these dedicated servicemen.
