The U.S. Navy is grieving the loss of two accomplished female pilots after their EA-18G Growler jet crashed in mountainous terrain east of Mount Rainier on Monday.
Officials identified the deceased as Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay P. Evans and Lt. Serena N. Wileman, both 31-year-old California-based officers assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron 130, based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. The crash occurred during a routine training flight in steep, heavily wooded terrain at approximately 6,000 feet elevation.
Who They Were
Lt. Cmdr. Evans, a Naval Flight Officer, made history as a participant in the first all-female flyover during Super Bowl LVII earlier this year. Lt. Wileman, commissioned in 2018, held the Navy Unit Commendation Medal and the Combat Action Ribbon.
Both officers were recognized as trailblazers within military aviation, contributing to expanded opportunities for women in combat roles. Their careers reflected decades of progress since women were first permitted to serve as naval aviators in 1973.
The Recovery Effort
Recovery operations at the crash site have proven challenging due to the remote location and difficult terrain. Washington Governor Jay Inslee authorized National Guard support to provide security for the wreckage area.
Electronic Attack Squadron 130 Commanding Officer Cmdr. Timothy Warburton said the immediate focus is supporting the families while investigators examine potential technical or environmental factors in the loss of the $67 million aircraft.
The Legacy
U.S. Senator Patty Murray described Evans and Wileman as pioneering leaders who opened doors for future generations of female aviators. Their contributions to naval aviation will endure as the military continues expanding women’s roles in combat operations.
This story has been updated. CNN’s military affairs team contributed to this report.
