Multiple military and federal agencies continued searching Sunday for a U.S. Marine who went missing during a training exercise off the coast of Southern California, according to Navy officials.
The Marine was reported missing early Thursday morning from the USS Anchorage during an integrated training operation involving the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group and the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit.
Incident
According to a Navy news release, search crews began operations shortly after midnight Thursday after the Marine was reported missing from the amphibious transport dock ship. The circumstances surrounding how the Marine went missing have not been publicly detailed.
The USS Anchorage is homeported at Naval Base San Diego and was operating off the Southern California coast at the time of the training exercise.
Search Effort
Officials said the search has covered approximately 2,400 square miles, or about 6,200 square kilometers. The effort has involved a coordinated response from multiple branches of the military and federal agencies.
The Navy said three surface ships and 12 aircraft from the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Air Force have been involved in the operation.
On Friday evening, the Navy transitioned from a search-and-rescue effort to a search-and-recovery mission, indicating officials believe survival is unlikely based on available information.
Military Response
In a statement released this week, the Navy expressed support for the Marine’s family and others affected.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and all who are affected during this difficult time,” the statement said.
The Marine’s name has not been released and is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
Recent Context
The search comes weeks after another major military recovery operation. In May, the U.S. Army confirmed the recovery of the remains of the second of two soldiers who went missing during training exercises in Morocco. That operation involved a multinational effort using air, naval, and advanced technological resources.
Military officials did not indicate whether the two incidents were related, but both underscore the risks associated with large-scale training operations.
Ongoing Investigation
Officials have not said how long the search will continue or whether additional assets may be deployed. Further information is expected to be released as the situation develops.
FAQs
Where did the Marine go missing?
Off the coast of Southern California during a training exercise.
When did the search begin?
Early Thursday morning, shortly after midnight.
What ship was involved?
The USS Anchorage, based at Naval Base San Diego.
Which agencies are involved in the search?
The Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Air Force.
Has the Marine’s identity been released?
No, the name is being withheld pending family notification.
