EA-18G GROWLER AVIATORS MISSING AFTER MOUNT RAINIER CRASH
Two members of an EA-18G Growler crew are still not found after their jet crashed in Washington. On October 15, 2024, around 3:23 p.m., a crash occurred near Mount Rainier and the search has been ongoing. Sadly, the aviators have yet to be found. With unfavorable weather conditions and tough terrain, the optics are far from ideal.
Search for Missing EA-18G Growler Aviators
Aerial search crews were able to find the crash site on October 17, 2024; however, the EA-18G Growler crew is still missing. Both aviators, whose identities are not being released at this time, are still not accounted for. An emergency operations center on Whidbey Island has been established in an effort to bring them home. Efforts have come from the military, including both the Navy and Army, along with various law enforcement agencies, and authorities from Yakima County tribal communities. While we don’t know which members of the EA-18 G Growler crew are still missing, we do know that both were Zappers in the Electronic Attack Squadron 130.
Weather and Terrain Continue to Hinder Rescue Efforts
Although the wreckage was found, it wasn't easy. The area was impacted by continuing challenging conditions, including mountainous terrain, cloudy weather, and low visibility. The National Weather Service (NWS) reported light rain and breezes around the White Pass area toward the beginning of the week. Rain and snow are expected to continue through Friday. Sadly, these unfavorable weather patterns and harsh terrain are making searching for the EA-18G Growler crew that much more difficult. While Sailors are searching, there is another notable challenge added by the rugged terrain they face—motorized vehicles cannot be used. Aerial searches and efforts on foot are being held responsible for finding the aviators at this time.
Naval Aircraft Is Part of the 'Zappers' Squadron
The EA-18G Growler is a part of the Electronic Attack Squadron 130 (the VAQ-130), and is based at Whidbey Island. The VAQ-130 is the Navy's oldest electronic warfare squadron, and received the nickname "Zappers" after being commissioned in 1959. The Electronic Attack Squadron returned to the US in July of 2024, after a 9-month combat deployment on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower in the southern Red Sea, where it executed a strike against the Houthi rebels.
EA-18G Growler Training Operations in Pacific Northwest
Seeing as most of the Navy's EA-18G Growler squadrons are based at NAS Whidbey Island, training is a way of life for many members of the community. The Boeing EA-18G Growler is especially effective for suppressing enemy air defenses by engaging in electronic warfare and disrupting systems related to communication and radar. The EA-18G Growler is part of the F/A-18 Super Hornet family and uses radio waves to jam enemy equipment. However, the jets are also armed with missiles and are capable of more direct attacks on enemy targets. The importance of these jets grows more and more as sophisticated enemies continue to advance their technological achievements, while a global need for stronger aerial defenses also increases. Sadly, with the EA-18G Growler crew still not found, while everyone is wishing for a positive outcome. These situations are stark reminders of the sacrifices required to maintain the American way of life. Suggested reads:
BY BUDDY BLOUIN
Buddy Blouin is a Contributing Writer at VeteranLife.com
Buddy Blouin is a Contributing Writer at VeteranLife.com
