EMMETT, Idaho — Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27, of Emmett was among the five Miramar-based Marines who were killed in a helicopter crash in a remote part of San Diego County on Tuesday, Feb. 6.
Capt. Benjamin Moulton was a graduate of Emmett High School in 2015. Emmett School District told KTVB that Capt. Moulton grew up in Emmett, and was well-known in the community, and will be deeply missed by many. They said that they are grieving, but not surprised to hear of his military success.
The U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) on Friday released the names of the five Marines who died when their helicopter went missing as a historic storm dumped heavy snow and record rain over California. Their crashed helicopter was located on Wednesday in rough terrain in Pine Valley, near San Diego.
All were assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and were based at Marine Corps Air Station in Miramar, California.
USMC said the crew was conducting routine flight training at the time of the crash.
The Marine Corps identified the following victims:
- Capt. Benjamin Moulton, 27, of Emmett, Idaho, a CH-53E helicopter pilot.
- Capt. Jack Casey, 26, of Dover, New Hampshire, a CH-53E helicopter pilot.
- Capt. Miguel Nava, 28, of Traverse City, Michigan, a CH-53E helicopter pilot.
- Lance Cpl. Donovan Davis, 21, of Olathe, Kansas, a CH-53E helicopter crew chief.
- Sgt. Alec Langen, 23, of Chandler, Arizona, a CH-53E helicopter crew chief.
The helicopter carrying the Marines was a CH-53E Super Stallion, the largest helicopter in the military. Defense officials said the craft is designed to fly in harsh conditions.
Authorities said the Super Stallion vanished late Tuesday night while conducting a flight training on their way back to the Miramar base in San Diego from Creech Air Force Base, located northwest of Las Vegas.
The last known contact with the helicopter crew was at about 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, when waves of downpours and snow were hitting the region, according to Mike Cornette of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. That location was based on a “ping” reported to a Cal Fire dispatch center.
"We have been confronted with a tragedy that is every service family's worst fear," said Lt. Col. Nicholas J. Harvey, commanding officer of HMH-361. "Our top priority now is supporting the families of our fallen heroes, and we ask for your respect and understanding as they grieve. The Flying Tigers family stands strong and includes the friends and community who have supported our squadron during this challenging time. We will get through this together."
The crash is under investigation.
Statements from Idaho leaders and community members about Capt. Benjamin Moulton:
Governor Brad Little: Flags will fly at half-staff immediately until sunset on Feb. 13 in honor of the life and service of Capt. Benjamin Moulton of Emmett, one of the brave U.S. Marines who lost their lives training to fight our enemies. Idaho is forever grateful for their service.
Rep. Russ Fulcher: My thoughts and prayers are with Captain Benjamin Moulton, as well as his family and friends following the tragic helicopter crash in California. Captain Moulton will forever be a hero and I am thankful for his bravery and service.
Senator Mike Crapo: I am deeply saddened to hear about the horrific accident that claimed the life of Captain Benjamin Moulton, of Emmett, Idaho. My prayers and sincerest condolences go out to his family and the families of the other servicemembers who lost their lives in this tragedy.
Senator Jim Risch: I am saddened to learn Captain Benjamin Moulton of Idaho was among those killed in Tuesday's CH-53 helicopter training exercise in California. Vicki and I are praying for his friends and family, and are grateful for his service to our nation.
UWNROTC: Today, the Husky Battalion is mourning the loss of Capt Benjamin Moulton. He was a UW NROTC graduate of the Class of 2019. Earlier this week during a routine training mission, Capt Moulton's CH-53E went down East of MCAS Miramar. Along with Capt Moulton, four other Marines were lost in the crash. Capt Moulton was known in the unit for being an excellent and inspirational leader. Our condolences go out all families, friends, Marines, and Sailors affected by this tragedy.
Additional information on the deceased, as provided by the USMC:
Benjamin Moulton commissioned in the Marine Corps on March 29, 2019, and was promoted to the rank of Captain on August 1, 2023. His decorations include the National Defense Service Medal.
Jack Casey commissioned in the Marine Corps on May 16, 2019, and was promoted to the rank of Captain on September 1, 2023. His decorations include the National Defense Service Medal.
Miguel Nava commissioned in the Marine Corps on May 26, 2017, and was promoted to the rank of Captain on November 1, 2021. His decorations include the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.
Donovan Davis enlisted in the Marine Corps on September 3, 2019, and was promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal on January 1, 2024. His decorations include the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and a Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.
Alec Langen enlisted in the Marine Corps on September 14, 2017, and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant on October 1, 2022. His decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and two Sea Service Deployment Ribbons.
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