Cmdr. Gabriel Edwards, the commanding officer of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5 (HSC-5), was identified as the sailor lost at sea after an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter made an emergency water landing in the Arabian Sea on July 1, 2026. The helicopter was assigned to the USS George H.W. Bush.

According to the U.S. Navy, the search for Edwards lasted more than 102 hours and covered over 14,000 square miles. 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.

Following his death, Edwards was posthumously promoted to captain. Todd Cimicata, commander of Carrier Strike Group 10, expressed condolences, stating, "The thoughts and prayers of every member of the Carrier Strike Group 10 team are with the Edwards family." He added, "Gabe’s legacy as a husband, father, friend and fearless leader will never be forgotten. We are thankful to each who carry a unique and indelible part of Gabe’s memory with us as we continue this important mission."

The Navy also acknowledged the dedication of all personnel involved in the search, saying, "We are profoundly grateful to every Sailor, aviator, and Airman who devoted countless hours, extraordinary skill, and unwavering determination in the effort to bring Gabe home." They further expressed ongoing support to Edwards' family and shipmates despite the distance.

Chief National Security Correspondent Jennifer Griffin reported on the ongoing search efforts and noted the reduced commercial traffic in the nearby Strait of Hormuz.

Sources