There is no such thing as a routine training mission. Two helicopters, capable of speeds up to 220 MPH, being flown over mountainous terrain using night vision goggles is anything but "routine". The members of our nation's military face constant danger.
The twelve members of the 66th RQS were indeed flying a nigh time training mission. Their job was rescuing others who become lost behind enemy lines. Throughout our history, these units are some of the most revered members by all branches. They have saved many lives on the battlefields of the world. Many have died in the process. What they do is far from routine.
These twelve were flying out of Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada. This night, they were practicing low level flying to avoid enemy radar and anti-aircraft fire and surface-to-air missiles. It was also raining this particular night. They were expected to return to base at 12:30 AM. When they failed to arrive by 1:00 AM, search crews were dispatched. About four hours later, the wreckage of both Pave Hawks was found. There were no survivors.
These twelve men that we lost 17 years ago today gave their lives while striving to make sure that other downed pilots would have a chance of survival if they were ever downed in hostile territory. They should be considered heroes for what they did, even if it was a "routine training mission".
We thank them for their service and vow never to let them be forgotten.
Capt. Gregg W. Lewis
Capt. Phillip Miller
Staff Sgt. Kevin M. Brunelle
Staff Sgt. Kenneth W. Eaglin
Senior Airman Jesse D. Stewart
Master Sgt. Matthew Sturtevant
Lt. Col. William H. Milton
Capt. Karl Youngblood
Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey R. Armour
Senior Airman Adam Stewart
Airman 1st Class Justin Wotasik
2nd Lt. Michael Harwell
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