The U.S. Army has confirmed the identity of Captain Rebecca M. Lobach as the third soldier tragically killed when their Black Hawk helicopter collided with an American Airlines flight near Washington, D.C., on January 29, 2025. The crash, which saw both aircraft plummet near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport around 9 p.m., resulted in the deaths of all 67 individuals aboard the two flights.
Lobach, 28, from Durham, North Carolina, was part of the three-person crew on the UH-60 Black Hawk during the training mission. Her name was initially withheld at her family's request but was released following their decision to go public.
According to her family, "We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Rebecca. She was a bright star in all our lives. She was kind, generous, brilliant, funny, ambitious, and strong. No one dreamed bigger or worked harder to achieve her goals." These heartfelt words encapsulate the outpouring of grief and admiration from family and friends alike.
Captain Lobach had distinguished herself throughout her military career, earning recognition as one of the top 20% of cadets nationwide during her time at the University of North Carolina. She had accumulated over 450 hours of flight time, demonstrating her skills and commitment to her role as an aviation officer.
Reflecting on her remarkable achievements, the Army noted her extensive service as both platoon leader and company executive officer within the 12th Aviation Battalion stationed at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Her commitment also extended beyond aviation; she served prominently as a White House Military Social Aide, supporting the President and First Lady at numerous events, showcasing her dedication to duty and service.
"Rebecca was a warrior and would not hesitate to defend her country in battle. But she was as graceful as she was fierce," her family stated, also highlighting her work as a certified victim advocate under the Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention program.
Onboard the helicopter with Lobach were two fellow soldiers: Staff Sgt. Ryan Austin O'Hara, 28, of Lilburn, Georgia, believed to be deceased pending identification, and Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Loyd Eaves, 39, from Great Mills, Maryland, whose remains have yet to be recovered. All three were members of Bravo Company, 12th Aviation Battalion.
Friends and colleagues painted a vivid portrait of Lobach's character. Second Lt. Lexi Freas, who knew Lobach from the University of North Carolina, expressed deep admiration, stating, "I owe so much of my career to her, and my hope is to bring her honor by becoming a...better pilot every day." Stories of her kindness and support filled the memories shared by fellow soldiers, underscoring her impact on those around her.
With the investigation continuing, there have been various political reactions concerning the circumstances of the crash. Notably, President Donald Trump controversially pointed toward possible connections with diversity and inclusion practices, leading to heated discussions surrounding policies and aviation safety. These comments have been met with pushback, with no substantial evidence to support such claims.
Tragedies like this compel communities to reflect on their heroes. Captain Lobach, with her brave service and dedication, embodied the principles of resilience and duty. Her family's final words resonate with many: "Our hearts break for the other families who have lost loved ones in this national tragedy, and we mourn with them." This sentiment captures the collective grief felt across the nation.
Rebecca Lobach's life was heart-wrenchingly cut short, yet her legacy of service and compassion continues to inspire those who knew her and those who learn of her story. She represented the dedication of all military personnel, carrying the values of honor, courage, and commitment throughout her service to the country.