In a heartbreaking turn of events, the U.S. Navy and military community are mourning the loss of two exceptional aviators who were killed in a tragic fighter jet crash near Mount Rainier, Washington. Lt. Cmdr. Catherine Evans and Lt. Serena N. Wileman, both native Californians, were on a routine training flight when their EA-18G Growler, a two-seat electronic warfare aircraft, went down in a remote, forested region at approximately 6,000 feet. Rescue efforts were delayed by difficult terrain and harsh weather conditions, but when crews reached the wreckage, the devastating confirmation came: both pilots had perished in the crash.
Lt. Cmdr. Evans had become a symbol of progress and leadership in naval aviation. She made headlines in 2023 as part of the historic all-female flyover at Super Bowl LVII, marking 50 years of women in naval aviation. Her performance and reputation earned her widespread respect as not just a skilled aviator, but a mentor and trailblazer for future generations of female pilots.
Lt. Wileman, who was commissioned in 2018, joined the elite Electronic Attack Squadron 130—known as the “Zappers”—in 2021. Her dedication to the squadron’s mission, her discipline, and her unwavering pursuit of excellence had already established her as a rising star in naval aviation. Both women had recently returned from an extended deployment in the Middle East, where they flew high-stakes missions over Yemen and supported U.S. operations in the Red Sea, responding to growing tensions and defending against missile and drone threats from hostile forces.
The sudden loss of these two remarkable pilots has left a deep void not only in their squadron but across the entire Navy. Commander Timothy Warburton, commanding officer of the “Zappers,” expressed profound grief: “It is with a heavy heart that we share the loss of two beloved Zappers. Our focus right now is on caring for their families and supporting our community through this unthinkable time.”
President Joe Biden also issued a statement acknowledging the sacrifice and valor of Evans and Wileman. “Jill and I are deeply saddened by the tragic deaths of two of our nation’s finest. After serving bravely on deployment in the Middle East, they had just returned home. Their loss is a painful reminder of the risks our service members face even outside combat zones.”
As the Navy conducts a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the crash, tributes continue to pour in from across the country. Fellow service members have described both women as fiercely committed, humble, and inspirational. Friends and mentors recall how Evans and Wileman often put others before themselves, embodying the spirit of service that defines the military at its best.
Their legacy goes far beyond the cockpits they commanded. Evans and Wileman represented the future of the Navy—a future that values diversity, courage, innovation, and relentless dedication. Their lives and careers have already inspired countless young women to pursue paths in military aviation, breaking barriers with every takeoff.
As memorial preparations begin, the Navy is standing firmly behind the families of both pilots, offering support and honoring their service in every way possible. The tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the high cost of readiness and the silent courage of those who fly not for glory, but for duty.
Lt. Cmdr. Catherine Evans and Lt. Serena Wileman will be remembered not only for their extraordinary skill and professionalism, but for the example they set and the path they paved. Their flight may have ended too soon, but their impact will soar on forever.
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