WASHINGTON, D.C.-The two Navy pilots that have yet to be found following the crash of an EA-18G Grolwer east of Mount Rainier on Oct. 15 have now been identified.
The two pilots, Lt. Commander Lyndsay Evans and Lt. Serena Wileman, were declared dead by the Navy on Oct. 20.
According to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, the two recently returned from a nine month deployment with their squadron, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130, “Zappers,” as a part of Carrier Air Wing Three (CVW-3) aboard USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) (IKE).
Lt. Commander Evans, a graduate of USC, was awarded two Single Action Air Medals for her performance during strikes on January 12 and 22, 2024. She also earned three Strike Flight Air Medals for her contributions to missions flown between December 21, 2023, and March 29, 2024, according to NAS Whidbey Island.
A California native, Lt. Wileman planned and flew multiple strikes into Houthi-controlled territories in Yemen during her deployment, earning three Strike Flight Air Medals.
Naval Air Station Whidbey Island released the following statement in announcing the death of Lt. Wileman and Lt. Commander Evans.
“They represent the best of the Navy and Naval Aviation: warriors who were steadfast in the face of danger, always prepared to lead, and compassionate to their fellow Sailors. Their memories will endure with the men and women of the Zappers, CVW-3, the entire IKE CSG, CVWP and Team Whidbey. Their legacies will live on, immortalized in the hearts of their families, friends, and all who had the privilege to serve alongside them.”
