Two Navy Pilots Killed in Plane Crash: Who Were They?

Last week, the Navy lost two exceptional pilots, Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay P. Evans and Lt. Serena N. Wileman, in a plane crash near Mount Rainier. These women were not just pilots; they were trailblazers in the field of aviation. Evans, a naval flight officer, and Wileman, a naval aviator, were part of the Electronic Attack Squadron, nicknamed the "Zappers. " They were both just 31 years old. The crash happened during a training flight. It took a while for the wreckage to be found, finally spotted at about 6, 000 feet in a remote, wooded area. The Navy has been working hard to recover the remains and take care of the families of these brave women.Evans was part of history when she took part in the first all-female flyover at last year's Super Bowl. This flyover celebrated the 50th anniversary of women flying in the Navy. During her deployment, Evans coordinated and led multiple airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. Wileman, who joined the Navy in 2018, also flew several missions against the Houthis in Yemen. Both Evans and Wileman were among the few women to fly combat missions over land. They earned many awards for their successful missions. The cause of the crash is still being investigated. Capt. Marvin Scott, who had flown with both Evans and Wileman, praised their professionalism and leadership. He said he was incredibly proud to have served with them.