Navy identifies 3 sailors missing after plane crash in Philippine Sea

The Associated Press

7 years ago

Lt. Steven Combs, assigned to the Providers of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron, is one of three sailors declared dead following an aircraft crash in the Philippine Sea on Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2017. (U.S. Navy photo/Released)

Airman Matthew Chialastri, assigned to USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), is one of three sailors declared dead following an aircraft crash in the Philippine Sea on Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

Airman apprentice Bryan Grosso, assigned to USS Ronald Reagan, is one of three sailors declared dead following an aircraft crash in the Philippine Sea on Wednesday, Nov. 22, 2017. (U.S. Navy via AP)

MIAMI — The U.S. Navy says two sailors from Florida and another from Louisiana died in an aircraft crash in the Philippine Sea.

In a news release, the Navy’s 7th Fleet said the families of Lt. Steven Combs and Airman apprentice Bryan Grosso of Florida and airman Matthew Chialastri of Louisiana were notified of their deaths following the Wednesday crash.

The C-2A “Greyhound” transport aircraft was traveling to the USS Ronald Reagan when it crashed. Eight people were rescued. U.S. and Japanese ships searched for the three missing sailors.

“Their service and sacrifice will be lasting,” said Vice Adm. Phil Sawyer, commander of the 7th Fleet.

The release didn’t provide hometowns for the men, but all three were assigned to the Ronald Reagan.

The Navy is investigating the cause of the crash.