By Our Correspondent
Aviation Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Oriola Michael Aregbesola, serving aboard USS Mason (DDG 87), has lost his life after falling overboard in the Red Sea on March 20.
According to a statement from the US Navy, Aregbesola, a member of the “Swamp Foxes” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 74, was deployed with Mason in the U.S. 5th Fleet since November.
Originally from Florida, Aregbesola joined the Navy in July 2020 and reported to HSM-74 in December 2020. Cmdr. Eric Kohut, HSM-74 commanding officer, praised Aregbesola’s dedication and selfless service, emphasizing his integral role within the team.
The incident has sparked mourning among Aregbesola’s friends and colleagues, with tributes pouring in on social media platforms.
Aregbesola’s decision to renounce his Nigerian citizenship to join the U.S. Navy adds a poignant layer to the tragedy.
A friend of the deceased took to X to mourn him.
He quoted a tweet shared by the late Aregbesola announcing his enlistment into the US Navy after denouncing Nigeria.
Mason and HSM-74 are part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group currently deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations.
The Navy is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Aregbesola’s death.
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