Two Navy Pilots Die in Jet Crash After Middle East Deployment
Two U.S. Navy pilots who tragically lost their lives in a jet crash near Mount Rainier, Washington, had recently completed a deployment in the Middle East, where they played critical roles in missions targeting Houthi forces in Yemen. The pilots, identified as Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay P. Evans, 31, and Lt. Serena N. Wileman, 31, were part of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130, based on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower.
The crash occurred during a routine training mission on Tuesday. The EA-18G Growler, a specialized electronic warfare aircraft, went down near Mount Rainier. Search and rescue teams faced challenging weather and difficult terrain, delaying the search for the aircraft for three days. The wreckage was finally located in a steep, heavily wooded area approximately 6,000 feet up on the eastern side of the mountain. The Navy is investigating the cause of the crash.
Evans and Wileman had only recently returned from their deployment in the Middle East, where they supported international efforts to protect shipping lanes from attacks by Iran-backed Houthi forces. The region has seen rising tensions, with the Houthis targeting vessels in strategic waterways, and the presence of U.S. forces aimed to secure these crucial routes. The two Navy pilots served on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, providing electronic attack support as part of broader coalition efforts in the region.
Lt. Cmdr. Evans, known by her callsign “Miley,” held the position of Training Officer within her squadron. During the recent deployment, she took part in several combat operations, including significant strikes against Houthi-controlled areas on January 12 and January 22. Her actions earned her multiple awards, including Single Action Air Medals, highlighting her leadership and courage in combat situations. Evans was also among the first women in the Navy to fly combat missions over land, marking a historic achievement in her career.
In February 2023, Evans had another notable moment when she was part of the all-female flyover during Super Bowl LVII. This event celebrated 50 years of women pilots in the Navy, and Evans shared her pride in being chosen for such a milestone. Reflecting on the experience, she expressed her excitement about the opportunity to represent female aviators, both past and present, at such a prestigious event.
Lt. Wileman, whose callsign was “Dug,” also earned recognition for her contributions. She was awarded three Strike Flight Air Medals for her role in missions carried out between December and March during the squadron’s deployment. Her dedication and skill were evident throughout the operation, and she was known for her strong sense of duty and professionalism.
The commanding officer of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower, Capt. Chris “Chowdah” Hill, expressed his grief over the loss of the two aviators. “These warriors of VAQ-130 will always be a part of the Ike family. They served with great courage and dedication during our deployment. I was honored to work with them; they brought incredible energy and spirit,” he said, highlighting the impact they had not just on their squadron but across the ship’s crew.
The EA-18G Growler aircraft they flew is a variant of the F/A-18 Super Hornet, designed specifically for electronic warfare. It plays a crucial role in disrupting enemy radar and communications, providing support for allied aircraft during combat missions. The Navy often deploys these jets on aircraft carriers like the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower to enhance the fleet’s operational capabilities.
The crash has prompted a thorough investigation to determine what led to the tragic incident. While routine training missions are essential for maintaining readiness and ensuring that navy pilots are prepared for any scenario, they also carry risks, as this incident has sadly shown. The loss of Evans and Wileman has been felt deeply within the Navy community, where they were both admired for their professionalism, skill, and dedication.
The deaths of these two officers are a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel, even during peacetime. Their service and commitment to their country extended beyond combat zones, and their efforts to secure vital international routes have been invaluable. The Navy community, along with friends and family of the fallen Navy pilots, is now mourning their loss and honoring their contributions.
