A local patrol squadron joined search and rescue efforts to locate survivors of a Navy MH-60S helicopter that crashed at sea off the coast of San Diego, Calif., Jan. 26.

The Patrol Squadron (VP) 1 Screaming Eagles were conducting integrated anti-submarine warfare exercises in support of the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) Expeditionary Strike Group at the time of the accident, placing the patrol aircraft in a prime location to be a critical player in the search for the missing helicopter and aircrew.

Early on the morning of Jan. 27, VP-1 shifted gears from anti-submarine warfare maneuvers and launched the ready alert aircraft to aid in search and rescue. The two VP-1 crews, alongside one crew from VP-26, rotated assistance throughout the entire search period.

Working together with other Navy assets and using a combination of human and electronic search methods common to P-3 technology, they searched more than 14 hours trying to locate the missing crew.

The Knighthawk helicopter with four crew members on board was assigned to Sea Combat Squadron 23 and was conducting routine training off the amphibious assault ship, USS Bonhomme Richard, at the time of the mishap.  Cause of the accident is under investigation.

The search for survivors was called off Saturday afternoon after rescuers determined it was unlikely the crew members could have survived exposure to the cold water temperatures.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Christopher M. Will of Warren, Mich., was pulled from the water shortly after the crash, but died from internal injuries while being treated aboard USS Bonhomme Richard.

Military officials released the names of the Sailors who perished: Lt. Adam A. Dyer of Lafayette, La.; Lt.j.g. Laura J. Mankey of West Hills, Calif.; and Petty Officer 1st Class Cory J. Helman of New Richmond, Wis.