2 killed in fighter jet crash…
On October 15, 2024, a tragic accident occurred near Mount Rainier in Washington State when an EA-18G Growler fighter jet from the U.S. Navy’s Electronic Attack Squadron 130, known as the “Zappers,” crashed during a routine training mission. The two aviators aboard, Lt. Cmdr. Lyn
Lt. Cmdr. Evans, a Naval Flight Officer from Palmdale, California, was recognized for her significant contributions to the Navy. Notably, she was part of the historic all-female flyover at Super Bowl LVII in 2023, commemorating 50 years of women in Navy aviation. Evans expressed her dedication to serving her country, stating, “Serving in the Navy means being part of something bigger than yourself.” ([ktvz.com][1], [usnews.com][3])
Lt. Wileman, a Naval Aviator from California, was commissioned in 2018 and joined the Zapper squadron in 2021. Throughout her service, she earned several commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation Medal, and a Combat Action Ribbon. Her dedication to duty and excellence was evident in her service record. ([usnews.com][3], [sfchronicle.com][4])
The crash occurred in a remote, steep, and heavily wooded area approximately 6,000 feet east of Mount Rainier. Search and rescue operations were swiftly initiated, transitioning to recovery efforts once the aviators were confirmed deceased. The Navy emphasized the importance of supporting the families of the fallen and the aviation community during this difficult time. ([wsfa.com][5], [sfchronicle.com][4], [apnews.com][2])
The EA-18G Growler, a \$67 million aircraft, represents the most advanced technology in airborne electronic attack and serves as the Navy’s first line of defense in hostile environments. Each aircraft seats a pilot in front and an electronics operator behind them. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. ([sfchronicle.com][4], [ktar.com][6])
In the wake of this tragedy, both Navy and civilian leaders have expressed their condolences and admiration for the service and sacrifice of Lt. Cmdr. Evans and Lt. Wileman. Their legacy as trailblazers in Navy aviation continues to inspire future generations. ([apnews.com][2], [people.com][7])
[1]: https://ktvz.com/news/accidents-crashes/2024/10/21/navy-identifies-2-killed-in-fighter-jet-crash-as-aviators-from-california/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “killed in fighter jet crash as aviators …”
[2]: https://apnews.com/article/822831896536f65d0d9b22895281db21?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Navy identifies 2 killed in fighter jet crash as aviators from California”
[3]: https://www.usnews.com/news/us/articles/2024-10-21/navy-identifies-2-killed-in-fighter-jet-crash-as-female-aviators-from-california?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Navy Identifies 2 Killed in Fighter Jet Crash as Aviators From California”
[4]: https://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/navy-identifies-2-killed-in-fighter-jet-crash-as-19852186.php?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Navy identifies 2 killed in fighter jet crash as aviators from California”
[5]: https://www.wsfa.com/2024/10/21/navy-identifies-2-killed-fighter-jet-crash-female-aviators-california/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Navy identifies 2 killed in fighter jet crash as aviators from California”
[6]: https://ktar.com/story/5617449/navy-identifies-2-killed-in-fighter-jet-crash-as-aviators-from-california/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Navy identifies 2 killed in fighter jet crash as aviators from California”
[7]: https://people.com/2-navy-pilots-killed-in-crash-identified-as-trailblazers-recently-returned-from-middle-east-deployment-8732203?utm_source=chatgpt.com “2 Navy Pilots Killed in Crash Identified as ‘Trailblazers,’ Recently Returned from Mid
dle East Deployment”
