The U.S. Navy announced on Tuesday that Commander Gabriel Edwards has been identified as the sailor who went missing after a helicopter incident in the Arabian Sea. This occurred when an MH-60S helicopter, part of the USS George H.W. Bush, made an emergency water landing on July 1.
Edwards, leading Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5 (HSC-5), was unaccounted for after the emergency landing. Among the four crew members, three were successfully recovered, but unfortunately, the Navy halted the search for Edwards on Sunday.
The search, which lasted over 102 hours, covered a vast area of more than 14,000 square miles. Maj. Gen. Todd Simikata, head of the 10th Carrier Strike Group, expressed his condolences, saying, “The thoughts and prayers of all team members are with the Edwards family.” He emphasized that even while far from home, their support remained with the family, honoring Gabe’s legacy as a beloved husband, father, friend, and leader.
Following Edwards’s passing, Acting Navy Secretary Hung Kao announced he would be posthumously promoted to captain. He also expressed gratitude towards all the sailors and airmen who aided in the search and continued to support the families affected.
Originally from Oakland, Oregon, Edwards graduated from Norfolk State University in 2006 and became a Navy helicopter pilot, attaining his Wing of Gold in 2008. He took command of HSC-5 in July 2025.
Edwards leaves behind his wife, Rebecca, and two children. Rebecca shared her appreciation for the effort of those who searched for her husband, stating how dedicated he was to his country. She described him as a humble and compassionate leader, and highlighted that his greatest joy stemmed from his family.
Throughout his career, Edwards accumulated over 2,000 flight hours across various Navy helicopter platforms and was in line for promotion to captain.
HSC-5 is currently deployed in the Middle East aboard the USS George H.W. Bush. The Navy mentioned that mental health support staff are providing assistance to the squadron members and crew. An investigation into the incident is ongoing, but there are no indications that it was caused by hostile actions.
