Editor's note: An earlier version of this story stated that Aregbesola was based out of Norfolk. He was based out of Naval Station Mayport in Florida.
The U.S. Navy on Saturday identified a Sailor who died after being "lost overboard" from the guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87), which has been operating in the Red Sea.
The Department of Defense and the U.S. Navy confirmed Aviation Machinist Mate 2nd Class Oriola Michael Aregbesola, 34, of Miramar, Florida, died Wednesday in a "non-combat related incident."
Neither the DoD nor the Navy provided any further details about the incident.
"Aregbesola, assigned to the 'Swamp Foxes' of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 74, was deployed with a detachment aboard Mason, which has been operating in the U.S. 5th Fleet since November," the U.S. Navy said.
HSM-74, which is based in Florida, was deployed as a detachment with the USS Mason. Officials said Aregbesola joined the Navy in July 2020, reporting to HSM-74 in December 2020.
“Petty Officer Aregbesola fully embodied the selfless character and thoughtful warrior spirit of the United States Navy Sailor,” said Cmdr. Eric Kohut, HSM-74 commanding officer. “His outstanding performance prior to and during deployment went well beyond aircraft maintenance; he truly saw and valued every member of the ship/air team. He will continue on in the heart of every Swamp Fox and our brothers and sisters in the IKE Carrier Strike Group. Our deepest thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
