One of the five U.S. Marines killed in a helicopter crash in California earlier this week was from New Hampshire, military officials confirmed Friday, the second Granite State service member to die in a chopper crash in the past three months.
Capt. Jack Casey, 26, of Dover, was killed when the CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter they were in crashed during stormy weather in the mountains outside of San Diego.
Capt. Casey was a pilot on the helicopter, military officials said.
Casey commissioned in the Marine Corps on May 16, 2019, and was promoted to the rank of Captain on Sept. 1, 2023, officials said. His decorations include the National Defense Service Medal.
All five were assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (3rd MAW) and were based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California.
“We have been confronted with a tragedy that is every service family’s worst fear,” said Lt. Col. Nicholas J. Harvey, commanding officer of HMH-361, in a statement. “Our top priority now is supporting the families of our fallen heroes, and we ask for your respect and understanding as they grieve. The Flying Tigers family stands strong and includes the friends and community who have supported our squadron during this challenging time.
“We will get through this together.”
At the time of the crash, the CH-53E crew were conducting routine flight training, officials said. The incident is under investigation.
Casey is the second service member from New Hampshire killed in a helicopter crash in the past three months. Staff Sgt. Tanner Grone, 25, of Gorham died in November alongside four other Army Special Operations aviation soldiers after the MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter they were aboard during a routine refueling mission crashed into the Mediterranean Sea, according to the Department of Defense.
Following news of Casey’s death, Gov. Chris Sununu directed all flags on public buildings and grounds in New Hampshire to fly at half-staff on the day of Capt. Casey’s interment.
“Capt. Jack Casey gave his life while serving his country,” Sununu said in a statement. “Valerie and I are deeply saddened as we mourn the loss of these five Marines. Capt. Jack Casey’s death is a profound loss for his family, his community, New Hampshire, and the country.”
Sununu was at Parris Island in South Carolina this week for the Marine training graduation of his son, and scheduled to head back to New Hampshire.
As a child, Casey attended St. Mary Academy of Dover, a grades K-8 private Catholic school in Dover. The school issued a statement on Facebook Friday saying, “may we never forget the sacrifice of Jack Casey and all those who have given their lives in service to our country.”
“Jack was not only a dedicated student during his time with us but also a courageous individual who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation’s freedoms,” the statement said. “Jack’s unwavering commitment to service and bravery exemplifies the values we hold dear in our community. During this difficult time, our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Jack’s family, friends, and fellow Marines.
“We recognize the profound loss felt by all who knew and loved him, and we stand together in honoring his memory.”
Dover Mayor Robert Carrier issued a statement Friday on behalf of the City Council, calling Casey a “cherished member of our community.”
“This event has left our city heartbroken, and we share in the mourning of a life dedicated to service and sacrifice,” the statement read. “The loss of Jack, a young man of such valor and commitment, deeply saddens us all. His service to our nation was immeasurable, and our thoughts are with his family during this incredibly difficult time. Dover has lost a true hero, and his legacy will forever be remembered in our hearts.
“We join the entire community in honoring Capt. Casey’s memory and his ultimate sacrifice for our country.”
Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte, commanding general of 3rd MAW, said the five Marines were serving a calling “greater than self and were proud to do so.”
“We will forever be grateful for their call to duty and selfless service,” Maj. Gen. Borgschulte said in a statement. “To the families of our fallen Marines, we send our deepest condolences and commit to ensuring your support and care during this incredibly difficult time.”
On Thursday, President Joe Biden said the military aircraft was traveling from Nevada to California on a routine mission.
“Our service members represent the very best of our nation — and these five Marines were no exception,” Biden said in a statement. “Today, as we mourn this profound loss, we honor their selfless service and ultimate sacrifice — and reaffirm the sacred obligation we bear to all those who wear the uniform and their families.”
The other four Marines killed are:
- Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, 21, of Olathe, Kansas, a CH-53E helicopter crew chief.
- Sgt. Alec Langen, 23, of Chandler, Arizona, a CH-53E helicopter crew chief.
- Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27, of Emmett, Idaho, a CH-53E helicopter pilot.
- Capt. Miguel Nava, 28, of Traverse City, Michigan, a CH-53E helicopter pilot.
