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The Royal Navy is mourning the loss of three of its personnel who died in a helicopter training accident on Wednesday. The Ministry of Defence confirmed that Lt Commander Chris Gayson, aged 42, Lieutenant Lily-Mae Fisher, 31, and Petty Officer Owen Green, 24, lost their lives in the crash. The incident occurred at approximately 03:45 BST in a field near Sourton, close to Okehampton in Devon.
All three service members were stationed at RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset. Commander Alex Kelley, a colleague and friend, expressed deep sorrow at their passing, describing it as a “devastating” blow to the Royal Navy. She highlighted that their loss would be felt by everyone who knew them, emphasizing their exceptional professionalism and the respect they earned within the service. An investigation into the circumstances of the crash has been initiated by the Defence Accident Investigation Branch.
Lt Fisher was training to become a pilot and had been scheduled to receive her wings later in the month. She was notable for being Britain’s only serving female Royal Navy commando and had spoken proudly about earning the green beret — a symbol of completing the commando course. Kelley remembered Fisher as down-to-earth, friendly, and selfless, someone who actively sought out life’s opportunities and inspired others by her candidness about the challenges she faced while pursuing ambitious goals.
Tributes have been left both at the crash site and outside the RNAS Yeovilton base. Messages thank the trio for their service and extend condolences to their families and friends. The families of all three have shared heartfelt statements. Fisher’s family described her as “an extraordinary woman” who left a profound impact on many lives. Green’s family spoke of the enduring heartbreak they feel, recalling his kindness and warmth. Gayson’s family remembered him as a gentle family man, deeply committed to his role in the Royal Navy
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