A search for a missing U.S. Marine from the USS Anchorage has transitioned into a recovery operation, according to Navy officials.
The Marine was reported missing during integrated training exercises off the Southern California coast on Thursday. The servicemember was part of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit based at Camp Pendleton and was aboard the amphibious ship during the incident.
The search began at 1:20 p.m. on Thursday and involved a coordinated effort from the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Air Force. By Saturday, the operation had covered approximately 2,400 square miles, utilizing three ships and 12 aircraft. Despite extensive efforts, the operation shifted to a recovery mission on Friday night.
Navy officials have stated that the Marine’s name will be withheld for 24 hours following notification of the next of kin. In a statement, they expressed their “thoughts and prayers are with the family and all who are affected during this difficult time.” The USS Anchorage, homeported in San Diego, was conducting training with the Makin Island Ready Group at the time of the incident.
The Spokesman-Review and FOX 5 San Diego reported that the search efforts involved multiple military branches and spanned a vast area over 43 hours. The USS Anchorage is an amphibious transport dock ship, and the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit is based at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.
The transition to a recovery mission reflects the challenging nature of the search and the commitment of the involved agencies to bring closure to the Marine’s family and fellow servicemembers.
Recent Comments