Death – Obituary – Accident and Crime News : Search and rescue operations are ongoing as efforts continue to locate the missing crewmembers of a US Osprey military aircraft that crashed into the waters off Yakushima Island in Kagoshima, Japan. The tragic incident occurred four days ago, leaving one crewmember dead and seven others unaccounted for.
The United States Air Force has identified the deceased crewmember as 24-year-old Staff Sergeant Jacob Galliher, who was stationed at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa. As part of the recovery process, a portion of the aircraft wreckage was discovered by local fishers and subsequently transported to a warehouse in Yakushima.
Early Sunday morning, US personnel were observed at the warehouse, carefully preparing and loading the retrieved items onto a truck destined for Yakushima Airport. The search operation has been further bolstered by the involvement of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson, which is actively participating in the mission alongside carrier-based aircraft, drones, and divers.
In a statement, the US Air Force expressed their unwavering determination, stating, “Our joint force and Japanese allies stand united in our determination to bring our air commandos home.” This collaborative effort between the United States and Japan underscores the shared commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of military personnel.
In a parallel development, two US Ospreys arrived at Amami Island’s airport in Kagoshima Prefecture on Sunday morning. These Ospreys, which are stationed at the US Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, have been deployed to aid in the ongoing search operation. After spending approximately an hour and 20 minutes at the airport, the aircraft took off at around 10:50 a.m. and headed eastward.
The extended search and rescue efforts highlight the dedication and commitment from both the United States and Japan to locate the missing crewmembers. The collaboration between the two nations, along with the utilization of advanced technology and resources, will hopefully lead to a successful resolution, ensuring the safe return of the remaining personnel.