The U.S. Army has identified two U.S. soldiers killed in a Black Hawk helicopter crash during a training exercise Thursday night in Southern California.
Staff Sergeant. Vincent Merceta, Intona 33, NJ and Sergeant. Tyler Shelton, 22, of San Bernardino, California, was killed in an accident on San Clementi Island and three others on board were injured, according to the Diego Union-Tribune.
“The loss of Staff Sergeant. Market and SGT Shelton have left a mark on this regiment that will never be fully healed,” said Col. Andrew R., commander of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne). His level of dedication to the cause and his exemplary service in the military is the embodiment of what it means to be a night stalker and soldier.
Isper pays tribute to the 9 service members killed in the training admission
“Our priority now is to ensure that the families of our fallen fighters receive our full support as we work together in this tragedy. We tell you that you are Staff Sgt. Marquetta, Sgt. Shelton, their families and fellow Night Stockers. Keep your thoughts and prayers in mind. ”
The U.S. Army’s Special Operations Command in Coronado, California, was conducting regular training from downtown San Diego to the Gulf, according to Fox to the Army in Diego.
The Army has not released further details about the tragedy.
Sergeant. Tyler Shelton, 22, and Staff Sergeant. Vincent Market, 33, was a Black Hawk repairer with the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne).
The island, about 78 miles west of Coronado, is governed by the naval base Coronado, but is part of Los Angeles County.
Merceta registered in 2011 and has been deployed to the Middle East several times.
Shelton enrolled in 2016 and deployed to Afghanistan.
Marketta’s awards include the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal with “V” for gallantry, and Shelton’s Army Good Conduct Medal and Afghanistan Expedition Medal.
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According to the Union-Tribune, both Marquetta and Shelton will receive the posthumous Meritrius Service Medal.
This is the second fatal training event in California this summer.
Last month, eight Marines and a sailor were killed when an assault amphibious vehicle sank near San Clement Island.
