Search for Missing Marine in San Diego

A search operation is underway in San Diego to locate a U.S. Marine who went missing during a nighttime training exercise from the USS Anchorage last Thursday. The Navy has transitioned from search and rescue to recovery, withholding the Marine’s name as they cover a search area of approximately 2,400 square miles using military ships and aircraft.

This incident marks the second major search for missing U.S. military personnel in six weeks, echoing fatal training accidents that involved soldiers in Morocco in May. During the current search efforts, the Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Air Force, and Navy are employing three surface ships and 12 aircraft to navigate the vast search area.

The Marine was part of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, stationed on the USS Anchorage transport dock ship. The Associated Press had reported that the remains of two Army soldiers were recovered in May after they went missing off duty during exercises in Morocco.

The circumstances surrounding the Marine’s disappearance remain undisclosed, with authorities choosing to keep the name confidential until the family is informed. The Navy expressed their sympathies, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and all who are affected during this difficult time.”