In a tragic incident last Tuesday, a training flight claimed the lives of two trailblazing Naval aviators, Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay P. Evans and Lt. Serena N. Wileman, when their jet crashed near Mount Rainier, Washington.
Search crews located the wreckage and declared both aviators deceased, as reported by the New York Post.
The accident involved an EA-18G Growler jet from the Electronic Attack Squadron known as the "Zappers." Residing about 6,000 feet in a steep and heavily wooded area, the wreckage prompted an immediate search and recovery operation following the crash.
Lyndsay P. Evans, aged 31, served as a naval flight officer and significantly contributed to the Electronic Attack Squadron. During her service, she participated in numerous strategic operations, including multiple airstrikes against Houthi terrorists during her 2023-24 deployment with Carrier Air Wing Three.
Serena N. Wileman, also 31, joined the Navy in 2018 and quickly distinguished herself as a naval aviator. She played a vital role during her deployment, targeting Houthi-controlled positions in Yemen and exemplifying the dedication required in dynamic combat situations.
People will remember Evans not only for her service but also for her role in a historic event at Super Bowl LVII, where she participated in the first-ever all-female flyover to commemorate 50 years of women in Navy aviation.
Throughout their careers, both aviators received numerous accolades. Wileman earned honors such as the National Defense Service Medal, the Navy Unit Commendation Medal, and a Combat Action Ribbon, showcasing her exceptional bravery and service.
Captain Marvin Scott, the commander of CVW-3, regarded both Evans and Wileman as exemplary professionals. He noted, "I have personally flown with both of these Great Americans in both training and dynamic combat operations, and they always performed professionally and precisely."
The squadron’s commanding officer, Timothy Warburton, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, affirming, “It is with a heavy heart that we share the loss of two beloved Zappers.” His focus remains on supporting the family members and the overall well-being of the squadron.
"Our priority right now is taking care of the families of our fallen aviators and ensuring the well-being of our sailors and the Growler community. We are grateful for the ongoing teamwork to safely recover the deceased,” Warburton added further, highlighting the collaborative effort involved in the recovery operations.
Officials are diligently investigating the cause of the tragic crash to determine what led to the fatal incident. As the community awaits answers, the legacy of Evans and Wileman as pioneering leaders in naval aviation continues to resonate across the Navy and beyond.
Their contributions and leadership will remain influential figures in the memories of everyone who served with them. "As true leaders in the Growler community, VAQ-130, and across my Air Wing, their contributions cannot be overstated; I could not be more proud to have served with each of them," remarked Captain Scott.
As the investigations proceed, the Navy and the broader military community come together to honor the service, courage, and profound impact of Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay P. Evans and Lt. Serena N. Wileman on their peers and the nation's defense capabilities.
The untimely passing of these dedicated aviators leaves a deep void in the Navy's ranks. They will be remembered as committed and brave individuals who pushed the boundaries of what is possible in military aviation.
