29th October 1992
Merit 84
55th SOS
MH-60G # 88-26116
On the night of October 29, 1992, a 55th SOS MH-60G crashed during a joint special operations training exercise known as Operation Embryo Stage, which was a demonstration of the proficiency of US forces to senior government officials. During the operation, four helicopters departed from Hill AFB en route to Michael Army Airfield on Dugway Proving Grounds, Utah. Unfortunately, one of the aircraft, Merit 84, carrying four crew members and nine operators, encountered challenging weather conditions and crashed into the Great Salt Lake, approximately 300 meters north of Antelope Island. Tragically, three crew members and all nine operators lost their lives, while one aircrew member, although seriously injured, was rescued by three Rangers from another helicopter in the formation. Following the accident, additional rescue efforts were swiftly initiated, leading to the recovery of all 12 members after 14 hours of arduous work in adverse weather conditions.
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Merit 84 Crew |
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Pilot  Lt. Col. Roland E. Peixotto Jr 55th SOS CO |
Flight Engineer  SSgt. Steven W. Kelley |
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Flight Engineer  Sgt. Phillip A. Keesler   OTHERS Senior Airman- Derek C. Hughes (23rd STS) Cpt. Michael L. Nazjonale (24th STS) Sgt. Mark C. Lee (24th STS) TSgt. Mark Scholl (24th STS) Sgt. Blaine A. Mishak (75th Rgt-1st Btn) Col. John T. Keneally (3rd Btn) Lt Col. Kenneth W. Strauss (75th Rgt-1st Btn) 1st Sgt. Harvey L. Moore (75th Rgt-1st Btn) SPC. Jeremy B. Bird (75th Rgt-1st Btn)  |
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Fair Winds
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