Search & Rescue Called Off for Missing Marine

The U.S. Pacific Fleet reports that after a deliberate, five-day search, the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) concluded their search and rescue operation for a missing Marine, Aug. 13.

The Marine was reported missing and assumed overboard Aug. 9. At that time the ship was conducting routine operations in the Sulu Sea. Over the course of the at-sea search approximately 13,000 square nautical miles of the Sulu Sea, Mindanao Sea and the Surigao Strait were searched with more than 110 aerial sorties.

During RIMPAC Exercises in 2012, a sailor fell overboard off the USS Essex as well. He was rescued.

Additional support was provided to the search and rescue effort by the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, U.S. Coast Guard District 14, and Singapore Information Fusion Centre.

“Only after exhausting every possibility through persistent and thorough search efforts, we have concluded the at-sea search and rescue effort for our Marine,” said U.S. Navy Capt. Gerald Olin, commander, Amphibious Squadron One and the on-scene commander for the search and rescue operation. “We appreciate the continued support provided to us from the U.S. Embassy and Philippine Government.”

During RIMPAC Exercises in 2012, a sailor fell overboard off the USS Essex as well. He was rescued.

“All of our Marines and Sailors demonstrated a tremendous resilience and put forth an extraordinary effort over the past five days, and I am humbled by the teamwork and professionalism displayed by all involved to find our Marine,” said Col. Chandler Nelms, commanding officer, 13th MEU. “Our thoughts and prayers have been and will continue to be with our Marine’s family during this difficult time.”