Via the Coast Guard Compass Blog. Posted from Commandant of the Coast Guard Admiral Bob Papp’s All Hands e-mail:
Shipmates,
I regret to inform you that last evening, Tuesday, February 28th, CG-6535 from ATC Mobile crashed in Mobile Bay. CG-6535 was flown by a four-person crew and was conducting training operations. A full Coast Guard and interagency search and rescue effort was launched – the aircraft was quickly located. One deceased crewmember was recovered, and extensive efforts continue to locate the other three crewmembers.
I know that everyone desires additional details on the crash and to know the names and status of the crew. We are following the appropriate notification procedures and request your patience and understanding. We will release additional information to all of you as soon as possible.
The aircrew and families must be our first priority. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as we move through the next few days. I am working with senior leadership to ensure we are providing every available resource to meet their needs.
We will conduct a full investigation into this incident to determine the cause. In the mean time, I ask that everyone remain focused on their duties and take deliberate steps to ensure you and your shipmates are standing a taut watch.
Semper Paratus,
Admiral Bob Papp
Commandant