On June 8, five United Stats Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton were killed when their Osprey crashed while training in the California desert near San Diego.
Among those marines were pilots Capt. John Sax, the son of former Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman Steve Sax, and Capt. Nicholas P. Losapio. The Crew chiefs, Cpl. Nathan E. Carlson, Cpl. Seth D. Rasmuson and Lance Cpl. Evan A. Strickland, were also killed on the crash.
“It is with complete devastation that I announce that my precious son, Johnny was one of the five US Marines that perished on Wednesday, June 8 in the Osprey Military crash near San Diego,” Steve Sax said in a statement.
“For those of you that knew Johnny, you saw his huge smile, bright light, his love for his family, the Marines, the joy of flying airplanes and defending our country!
“He was my hero and the best man I know, there was no better person to defend our country. Johnny Sax knew he wanted to be a pilot since his young years and would tell his Dad what types of planes were flying overhead while playing little league baseball in the outfield.
“There was never any doubt from a young age that Johnny would be a pilot and his passion was to fly! I am so proud of the man he became and so proud to call him my son! This loss will change my life forever and is a loss to not only the Marines but this world!”
According to ABC7, the cause of the crash is under investigation and occurred while the Marines were participating in routine live-fire training over an empty gunnery range.
Dodgers statement mourns passing of Sax
After the news broke, the Dodgers expressed their support for the Sax family.
“The Los Angeles Dodgers are saddened to hear about the passing of Steve Sax’s son, John, and the five Marines who lost their lives in this week’s tragic helicopter accident,” the team said in a statement.
“Our thoughts and condolences go out to their families and friends.”
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
