The remains of U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jacob “Jake” M. Galliher, who died in an Osprey military aircraft crash in Japan, have been identified. The search continues for the seven other crew members. The cause of the crash is still unknown. Japanese allies are assisting in the search efforts. Lauren Irwin reported
The remains of a U.S. Air Force airman who tragically lost his life in an Osprey military aircraft crash in Japan have been identified, while the search continues for the seven other crew members who remain missing. The airman has been identified as U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jacob “Jake” M. Galliher, a 24-year-old direct support operator stationed at Kadena Air Base in Japan. Galliher, originally from Pittsfield, Mass., enlisted in the Air Force in 2017.
The Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) released a statement on Saturday, confirming the identification of Galliher and expressing their commitment to working with their Japanese allies to continue the search and rescue operation for the missing crew members. The tragic crash occurred when an Osprey crashed near the island of Yakushima on Wednesday afternoon during a routine training mission.
According to Japanese coast guard officials, the aircraft rolled over mid-flight, with reports of a fire in one of the engines and an explosion before the aircraft descended into the water. AFSOC has stated that the cause of the crash is still unknown. The ongoing search and rescue operation involves air, surface, and subsurface searches of the water and coastline.
The primary focus for AFSOC is to support the extensive search and rescue efforts while also providing care and support for the family and loved ones affected by this tragic incident. Lieutenant General Tony Bauernfeind, an AFSOC commander, emphasized the united determination of the joint force and Japanese allies to bring the missing crew members home safely.
The Japanese allies have played a crucial role in the search efforts, and Rear Admiral Jeromy Williams, a Pacific commander for AFSOC, expressed gratitude for their tireless assistance. He reassured the families of the missing crew members that every possible capability is being utilized in the ongoing search and rescue operation.
Ospreys, which are hybrid aircraft combining features of helicopters and airplanes, are used to transport special operations troops. However, they have faced criticism due to several crashes in recent years. Despite these concerns, the search and rescue efforts remain ongoing, with the hope of locating and recovering the missing crew members.
In conclusion, the tragic Osprey crash in Japan has claimed the life of Staff Sgt. Jacob M. Galliher and left seven others missing. The search and rescue operation, conducted jointly by the U.S. military and Japanese allies, continues in an effort to bring the missing crew members home safely. The cause of the crash remains unknown, and the Osprey aircraft itself has faced scrutiny due to previous accidents. However, the commitment and dedication of the search and rescue teams, along with the support and assistance of the Japanese government and volunteers, provide hope for a successful recovery mission..