Search Ends for USS Normandy Sailor
The U.S. Navy and Coast Guard have ended their efforts to find a sailor assigned to guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60). The search ended after sunset on June 9.
Fire Controlman 2nd Class Christopher W. Clavin, 23, went overboard June 6 at about 3 p.m. while Normandy was conducting training 80 miles off the coast of Cherry Point, North Carolina.
Petty Officer Clavin was observed falling into the water Tuesday, resulting in an immediate man overboard call and search and rescue response involving USS Normandy, aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, with four embarked helicopters, U.S. Coast Guard medium endurance cutter USCGC Forward, as well as guided missile destroyers USS Bainbridge, USS The Sullivans and USS Mason. Additional Navy and Coast Guard aircraft also assisted.
The Navy and Coast Guard team spent over 76 hours searching an area that covered roughly 6,300 square miles.
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of our shipmate, Petty Officer Chris Clavin. He was an important part of the team and a friend to so many on board," said Captain Derek Trinque, commanding officer of USS Normandy. "We are not alone in our grief. Our hearts and thoughts are also with Chris's mother, sister and his entire family."
An investigation is currently underway.