2 Marine aviators killed last night in so called "friendly fire" incident...
Shortly after typing his last post here, MaxJam1976 was tragically killed in a blue on blue incident aboard the USS John C Stenis.
Lance Corporal (Gunny) MaxJam1976 and a Pilot (who will not be officially identified until relatives have been informed) were killed when their Super Cobra fast attack helicopter was blown up over the deck of the carrier.
A Suspected Navy Seal known simply as "Beskin" was detained following the incident.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing Beskin arguing with the Lance Corporal MaxJam as he climbed into the cockpit shortly before takeoff. Sketchy details followed but its believed that Beskin planted C4 and remotely detonated it as the Cobra lifted off on a routine mission supporting troops engaging insurgents from MEC Forces in the Gulf of Oman.
A number of other marines were treated for minor injuries by medics at the scene. Its a miracle that the munitions on board the cobra didnt explode causing more casualties. 2 Seahawks and an F22 raptor were also damaged in the blast.
The destroyed aircraft along with the remains of both men lie in 100m waters about a mile off the coast. The Navy has launched an operation to endeavour to recover them over the next few days.
Comrades were visibly distraught and unavailable for comment.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the two marines killed. :salute: