A Florida sailor is dead after going missing from the USS Mason on Wednesday in the Red Sea, The Department of Defense announced Saturday.
The soldier was identified as 34-year-old Oriola Michael Aregbesola, an Aviation Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class.
San Diego, Navy pier, California, UNITED STATES – August 3, 2018: Emblem of the United States Navy isolated on a door of black car of United States Armed Forces.
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Aregbesola went missing on March 20, while conducting operations in the Red Sea on the USS Mason, U.S Central Command said in a statement Friday.
He was assigned to USS Mason and deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations, as part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group.
According to the DoD, the cause of death was after a “non-combat” related injury.
The incident is under investigation.
The US Navy has identified the sailor who tragically died while supporting operations in the Red Sea as Petty Officer 2nd Class Andrew J. Clement. The 38-year-old sailor was assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill, which is currently deployed to the region.
Petty Officer Clement was a dedicated and highly skilled sailor who had served in the Navy for 15 years. He was a native of Massachusetts and is survived by his wife and two children. His death has sent shockwaves through the Navy community and has left his fellow sailors mourning the loss of a beloved comrade.
The circumstances surrounding Petty Officer Clement’s death are still under investigation, but initial reports indicate that it was not the result of enemy action. The Navy has not released any further details about the incident out of respect for the privacy of the sailor’s family.
Petty Officer Clement’s death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that sailors face while serving their country overseas. The Red Sea is a strategically important region for the US Navy, with ongoing operations to ensure freedom of navigation and security in the area. Sailors like Petty Officer Clement play a crucial role in these operations, often working long hours in challenging conditions to support their fellow service members.
The Navy has extended its deepest condolences to Petty Officer Clement’s family and friends during this difficult time. A memorial service will be held in his honor aboard the USS Winston S. Churchill, where his fellow sailors will pay tribute to his service and sacrifice.
As the investigation into Petty Officer Clement’s death continues, the Navy remains committed to providing support to his family and ensuring that all necessary measures are taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The loss of a sailor is always a somber occasion, but it also serves as a reminder of the bravery and dedication of those who serve in the US Navy. Petty Officer Clement will be remembered as a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his country.
