Five young Marines tragically lost their lives last week during a training exercise that went awry. The incident has raised questions from family members about the decision-making process within the Department of Defense. The fatal crash occurred when the helicopter the Marines were flying in crashed into a forest during a severe rainstorm.
Radford Moulton, the uncle of Captain Benjamin Moulton, one of the Marines who perished, has been vocal about his concerns. He questioned the decision to allow the Marines to fly in such treacherous weather conditions. The storm was described as a 'thousand-year storm,' characterized by heavy rainfall and hurricane-force winds. Of particular concern was the fact that the helicopters did not have defrosters on their windshields, meaning that icing could result in a catastrophic event.
The helicopters were flying at an altitude of 5,400 feet, where rain and snow mixed, making the conditions even more risky. Moulton expressed his disbelief that the mission was not delayed until the storm subsided, emphasizing that it was a training exercise and waiting a few hours would not have jeopardized the operation.
The incident has left family members devastated and mourning the loss of their loved ones. Alongside Captain Benjamin Moulton, the other Marines who lost their lives have been identified as Captain Jack Casey, Captain Miguel Nava, Lance Corporal Donovan Davis, and Sergeant Alec Langan. These young individuals were highly talented and promising individuals, their potential cut tragically short.
Captain Benjamin Moulton, described as an exceptional individual, had a remarkable academic background. He received a full-ride scholarship to the University of Washington and graduated with a political science degree in just three years. He then went on to excel in officer candidate school, finishing second in his class and earning the role of company commander. Moulton was also recognized for his marksmanship skills and served as the captain of the University of Washington boxing team. Outside of his military pursuits, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and had a passion for blacksmithing and knife making.
The impact of this loss has reverberated throughout the community. In recognition of Captain Benjamin Moulton's sacrifice, the governor of Idaho ordered flags in the state to be flown at half-mast. The Moulton family has deep roots in Idaho, with five generations calling the state home.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the families of the fallen Marines can only hope for answers and demand accountability. They seek solace in the memory of their loved ones and remember them for the remarkable individuals they were. Captain Benjamin Moulton, along with his comrades, will always be honored for their bravery and sacrifice. May they rest in peace.
