Trailblazing Navy Aviators Killed in Tragic Jet Crash

(Scypre.com) – The two Navy crew members killed in a tragic jet fighter crash near Mount Rainier last week have been identified as two trailblazing aviators. Among them was a female pilot who made history during the Super Bowl, marking a significant moment for women in the military.

The victims, Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay P. Evans and Lt. Serena N. Wileman, were both California natives. Evans was a naval flight officer, while Wileman served as a naval aviator. They died when their EA-18G Growler jet crashed during a training flight on Tuesday, near the Washington state mountain, according to Navy officials.

Lt. Cmdr. Evans and Lt. Wileman were members of the Electronic Attack Squadron, known as the “Zappers,” a group recognized for its missions over the past year targeting Houthi militants. They were part of Carrier Air Wing Three, operating in various high-risk environments to support military operations.

The wreckage of their jet was discovered on Sunday at an altitude of about 6,000 feet. It was found in a steep, heavily wooded area that made access difficult. Rescue crews, who located the downed aircraft from the air, confirmed that both aviators had perished in the crash.

“It is with a heavy heart that we share the loss of two beloved Zappers,” stated Timothy Warburton, the commanding officer of Electronic Attack Squadron 130. He added, “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.”

Lt. Cmdr. Evans had been part of a historic Super Bowl moment, as she participated in the first-ever all-female flyover during Super Bowl LVII in 2023. The flyover commemorated fifty years since women began flying in the Navy. A Navy spokesperson described Evans’ participation as a highlight of her career, showcasing her commitment and dedication to her role.

During her deployment in 2023-24, Evans was responsible for coordinating and executing airstrikes targeting Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, according to the Defense Visual Information Distribution Services. Her expertise and contributions were noted as vital to the squadron’s mission.

Lt. Wileman, who joined the Navy in 2018, also carried out numerous airstrikes during her deployment over Houthi-controlled regions in Yemen. She was among a small group of female aviators who flew combat missions over land, distinguishing herself in a male-dominated field.

Wileman received recognition for her bravery and skill, earning multiple accolades, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Navy Unit Commendation Medal, and a Combat Action Ribbon. Her career was a testament to her devotion to service and the sacrifices she made as part of her duty.

Capt. Marvin Scott, commander of Carrier Air Wing Three, expressed his admiration for both aviators. “I have personally flown with both of these Great Americans in both training and dynamic combat operations, and they always performed professionally and precisely,” Capt. Scott stated. He praised Evans and Wileman for their leadership roles within the Growler community and noted their contributions as vital to the success of the squadron.

“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,” he said.

The loss of Lt. Cmdr. Evans and Lt. Wileman marks a heartbreaking moment for the Navy, especially for the “Zappers” squadron. Their trailblazing careers not only inspired their fellow servicemembers but also paved the way for future generations of female pilots. As the Navy comes to terms with the tragedy, the focus remains on supporting the families and honoring the memory of these two exceptional aviators.

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