The U.S. Navy has identified Cmdr. Gabriel Edwards as the sailor lost at sea following an emergency water landing of an MH-60S helicopter in the Arabian Sea last week. Edwards, the commanding officer of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5 (HSC-5), went missing after the helicopter, assigned to the USS George H.W. Bush aircraft carrier, made the emergency landing on July 1.
Three of the helicopter's four crew members were recovered, but the Navy suspended its search for Edwards on Sunday after more than 102 hours, covering over 14,000 square miles. Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, commander of Carrier Strike Group 10, stated that the thoughts and prayers of the team are with the Edwards family and that his legacy as a leader will not be forgotten.
Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao directed that Edwards be posthumously promoted to the rank of captain. Edwards, a native of Oakland, Oregon, graduated from Norfolk State University in 2006 and earned his Wings of Gold as a Navy helicopter pilot in 2008. He assumed command of HSC-5 in July 2025. He logged more than 2,000 flight hours in multiple Navy helicopter platforms during his career.
Edwards is survived by his wife, Rebecca, and two children. His wife, Rebecca Edwards, said in a statement that her husband had dedicated his life to serving his country with honor, courage, and commitment, leading with humility and compassion, and always putting his people first. She described him as a respected leader and mentor to those who served with him, and the foundation of their home.
HSC-5 is currently deployed to the Middle East aboard the USS George H.W. Bush. The Navy has stated that the cause of the incident is under investigation and that there is no indication of hostile action. Mental health professionals, chaplains, and support personnel are assisting members of the squadron and the ship's crew.