“We are profoundly grateful to every sailor, aviator, and airman who devoted countless hours in the effort to bring Gabe home,” she said.
She highlighted his dedication to naval aviation and his primary devotion as a father and husband.
“Gabe has dedicated his life to serving his country with honor, courage, and commitment,” Rebecca Edwards said.
“He led with humility, integrity, and compassion, always putting his people before himself.”
She requested privacy as the family grieves.
“We find comfort in knowing that Gabe lived a life of extraordinary purpose,” she added.
Background and Investigation
According to Navy records, Edwards accumulated more than 2,000 flight hours across several helicopter airframes, including the SH-60F, HH-60H, and MH-60S.
His deployment assets included the aircraft carriers USS George H.W. Bush and USS Abraham Lincoln, alongside several Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers.
The military deployed mental health professionals, counselors, and chaplains to support the squadron crew on the USS George H.W.
Bush.
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The cause of the emergency water landing remains under investigation, though Navy officials stated there is no indication of hostile action.
