NEW ORLEANS – The Coast Guard has suspended their search for the soldiers and marines missing near Santa Rosa, Florida, Thursday.
Response crews suspended their search in the Santa Rosa Sound at 12:48 p.m.
“The decision to suspend is always difficult,” said Layne Carter, search and rescue mission coordinator. “With heavy hearts, we have decided to suspend active search and rescue operations. Our thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family of the members involved in this tragedy.”
Coast Guard and local responders have continuously searched for more than 36 hours in a 94 square-mile area.
The Coast Guard is providing technical consultation and advice to the Army as salvage operations focus on recovering the remaining fuselage and debris.
For questions about the aircraft and crew contact Louisiana National Guard at 504-278-8286. For questions on the Marines aboard contact Marines Special Operations Command at 910-440-0770. For questions on the training mission contact Eglin Air Force Base at 850-882-3931.