Search for U.S. Marine Missing Off Southern California Coast Transitions to Recovery

A United States Marine serving aboard the USS Anchorage has been reported missing following a training exercise conducted off the coast of Southern California. An extensive multi-agency search operation, initially launched to locate the service member, has since transitioned to a recovery effort, as confirmed by the Navy.

Search and Recovery Operations

The search commenced at approximately 1:21 a.m. on Thursday when the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group initiated efforts after the Marine was reported missing. The incident occurred during integrated training exercises involving the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Authorities have stated that the identity of the missing Marine will not be publicly released until 24 hours after their next of kin have been officially notified.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and all who are affected during this difficult time.

This statement was issued by the Navy in a news release on Saturday.

The shift from a search-and-rescue mission to a search-and-recovery operation took place at about 9 p.m. on Friday. Over a span of 43 hours, the search covered an expansive area of approximately 2,400 square miles.

The comprehensive operation involved substantial resources, including three surface ships and 12 aircraft. Personnel and equipment from various branches participated, namely the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard, and U.S. Air Force.

The USS Anchorage, from which the Marine went missing, is an amphibious transport dock ship. It is an integral part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group.