June 13, 2022 |
Flags are at half-staff across Wyoming at the order of Governor Mark Gordon until sunset today in honor and memory of U.S. Marine Seth Rasmuson. The 2019 graduate of Buffalo High School was among five Marines killed when an Osprey aircraft crashed in southern California on Wednesday.
According to a statement from the Marines on Thursday, the flight crew killed in the crash were assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 39 at Camp Pendleton. Their MV-22B Osprey went down in the remote desert of Imperial County California during a training exercise. Aerial video of the crash scene showed only blackened earth with only the charred remains of the craft’s large fuselage, engines or propellers evident.
The Marine Corps V-22 Osprey is hybrid craft that can take off and land like a helicopter and fly like a plane. It is used to transport troops and equipment.
According to the statement from the Corps, an investigation is underway.
“We mourn the loss of our Marines in this tragic mishap,” said Maj. Gen. Bradford Gering, the commanding general of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, in a statement. “Our hearts go out to their families and friends as they cope with this tragedy.”
Wyoming Senator John Barrasso said in a statement “there is certainly more to learn about what happened.” Barrasso added that there is also much more we need to know about Seth Rasmusson’s “life and service to our country.” Governor Gordon issued the order to fly flags at half-staff in honor of the Wyoming Marine on Friday morning.
Meanwhile, the governor last attended the farewell ceremony for 28 Wyoming Army National Guard “Outrider Aviators” who are deploying in support of Operation Spartan Shield Operation Spartan Shield. OSS is a United States Army Central operation in the Middle East, and is commanded by United States Army Central. It includes units from all service branches.
Along with the state flag, the unit was presented with an “Entering Wyoming” highway sign to display at their company headquarters while deployed.
