Commander Edwards: Legacy in the Skies | Virginia Beach News

After 102 harrowing hours and a 14,000-square-mile search involving multiple carrier strike groups and Air Force units, the U.S. Navy has confirmed Commander Gabriel Edwards as the sailor missing after a helicopter emergency landing in the Arabian Sea on July 1st—and has suspended rescue efforts. A decorated 20-year Navy veteran and commanding officer of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 5, Edwards was lauded as a selfless, integrity-driven leader whose legacy as a devoted husband, father, and friend is being honored by his peers. His wife, Rebecca, called him the love of her life and the cornerstone of their family. A Norfolk State graduate and 2008 aviator, Edwards logged over 2,000 flight hours and was on track for promotion to captain. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with no signs of hostile action. Mental health teams and chaplains are now supporting his squadron and crew as the Navy extends its deepest condolences to his family. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/1307452cdc049bf2