The U.S. Navy identified Cmdr. Gabriel Edwards as the missing sailor after a helicopter made an emergency landing in the Arabian Sea on July 1. Edwards led Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5 and was missing when three out of four crew members of the MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter were rescued. The search for Edwards was called off after over 102 hours, as stated by the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command.

In a statement, Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata of Carrier Strike Group 10 expressed sympathy, mentioning that the team’s support is with Edwards’ family. Cimicata described Edwards as a leader whose memory endures.

Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao announced Edwards will be posthumously promoted to captain. Cao expressed appreciation for those who participated in the search and continue to support Edwards’ family and colleagues.

Edwards, a native of Oakland, Oregon, served for 20 years. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in physics and was commissioned via the Naval ROTC. In 2008, he became a helicopter pilot, earning his “Wings of Gold.” He served in various squadrons and took command of HSC-5 last year.

The search area spanned over 14,000 square miles, involving several aircraft carriers, guided-missile destroyers, and other military aircraft. Edwards is survived by his wife, Rebecca, and their two children.

Rebecca Edwards expressed gratitude to those involved in the search. She praised Gabe’s dedication, leadership, and commitment to his family and country.

The three rescued crew members returned to the USS George H.W. Bush, the helicopter’s assigned vessel. The Navy is investigating the cause of the emergency landing and clarified that there was no indication of hostile action causing the helicopter’s descent.