CAPT Miguel J. Nava, USMC
1STLT Miguel J. Nava, USMC, became a Naval Aviator on July 24, 2020 at HT-8, NAS Whitting Field, Milton, Florida. 1slt Nava was Navy Helicopter Pilot Designator Number R-35281.
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Shipmates, I am writing to share the tragic news that the Naval Academy alumni community has lost Capt Miguel Nava, USMC, in the crash of a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter on Tuesday, 6 February, in California. Miguel was a graduate of the Class of 2017, and a member of the 22nd Company. Miguel was a husband, a father, a son, a brother, a friend…and a Marine. We join his wife, Ryann, 5-month-old son, Luca, his brother, Nikolas, and parents Lisa and Javier Nava in mourning his loss, and the loss of his four fellow Marines from the Flying Tigers of Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron (HMH 361). Also perishing in the crash were: Capt Benjamin Moulton, 27, USMC; Capt Jack Casey, 26, USMC; LCpl Donovan Davis, 21, USMC; and Sgt Alec Langen, 23, USMC. Our Alumni Association and Foundation Memorial Affairs team is actively coordinating our support and response with the Naval Academy and the family, and we are sincerely heartened by the Veteran Support Organizations that have already rallied around Miguel’s family and friends to be there for them at this time of great tragedy. Miguel’s Virtual Memorial Hall page can be viewed here. When we lose brave men and women who selflessly serve in the defense of our freedom, it is brutal and heartbreaking. We should pause and be reminded that our service members accept immense risks every day. When they perish, as we grieve, we must lock arms as a community and embrace their classmates, friends and family. The USNA Alumni Association and Foundation will support the Nava family during this difficult time and appropriately honor Miguel’s service and sacrifice to his country. Jeff Webb |