The U.S. Army’s decision to withhold the name of a Black Hawk pilot involved in a deadly midair collision near Ronald Reagan National Airport has sparked widespread speculation and debate. The crash, which occurred Wednesday night over the Potomac River, marked the first fatal commercial aviation accident in the U.S. since 2009.
The collision involved a Sikorsky H-60 military helicopter and an American Airlines passenger jet carrying 60 passengers and four crew members. The Black Hawk was transporting three soldiers.
The Army confirmed the identities of two soldiers: Staff Sgt. Ryan Austin O’Hara, 28, who is “believed to be deceased pending positive identification,” and Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Loyd Eaves, 39, whose remains have not yet been recovered and is listed as “duty status-whereabouts unknown.”
The third pilot, whose name has not been released at the request of the family, is also classified as duty status-whereabouts unknown. However, in a Thursday briefing, Jonathan Koziol, Army aviation chief of staff, confirmed the pilot commanding the Black Hawk was a woman.
Speculation Over Withheld Name
The decision not to release the pilot’s name has fueled speculation, particularly among conservative commentators and political figures online.
– Matt Walsh, conservative commentator, on X: “The military is withholding the name of the female helicopter pilot. This is totally unacceptable. The helicopter was involved in, and may have actually caused, one of the worst airline disasters in American history. We have a right to know the names.”
– Kyle Becker, independent commentator, on X: “This is extremely odd. It is only going to fuel more suspicion that military policies may have played a role in the crash.”
– Country singer John Rich on X: “Why do you think the White House is withholding the name of the Black Hawk pilot?”
Some critics have questioned whether Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives played a role in the incident. Former President Donald Trump raised similar concerns during a Thursday press briefing, calling for further scrutiny of aviation safety and air traffic control protocols.
Authorities continue to investigate the crash, with reports indicating that the Black Hawk was flying at a higher altitude and at least a half-mile off its preapproved flight path. Officials believe recovering the wreckage from the river will provide critical answers.
Lt. Col. Erika A. Holownia, commander of the 12th Aviation Battalion, stated Friday: “Each of our fallen soldiers were exceptional leaders and teammates. Their legacy and honorable service to our nation will forever remain.”
As investigations continue, the Army remains firm in its decision to respect the family’s privacy, despite mounting public demand for full disclosure.
