Search for Missing Sailor Concludes

The U.S. Navy has officially ended its search for a sailor who was reported missing from the USS George Washington. The sailor is believed to have possibly gone overboard while the aircraft carrier was navigating the waters north of Australia. The incident occurred on Monday as the ship was transiting through the Timor Sea, according to a statement from the Navy.

Collaborative Search Efforts

The search operation involved not only the USS George Washington and its carrier strike group but also received support from the Australian Defence Force and the Australian Border Force. Despite these extensive efforts, the search concluded at 12:40 p.m. on Wednesday without success. The collaboration between U.S. and Australian forces underscores the strong military ties and cooperative spirit between the two nations.

Navy’s Response and Support

Lt. Cmdr. Mark Langford, a spokesperson for the USS George Washington, expressed sincere condolences to those affected by this tragic event. He emphasized that the ship is actively engaging with its crew to provide necessary services and support during this difficult time. The Navy is committed to ensuring that all personnel have access to resources that can help them cope with the emotional impact of this incident.

Privacy and Protocols

In accordance with Navy policy, the identity of the missing sailor will be withheld until 24 hours after next-of-kin notification has been completed. This protocol ensures that family members are informed in a respectful and timely manner before any public disclosure.

Background on USS George Washington

The USS George Washington was on its first patrol since returning to Japan in November 2024, as reported by USNI News. This deployment marks a significant operational phase for the carrier as it resumes its duties in international waters. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Navy for further comments on this matter.