Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay “Miley” Evans and Lt. Serena “Dug” Wileman of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130 were aboard the Growler that crashed near Mount Rainier.
As already reported, an EA-18G Growler Electronic Attack assigned to the Electronic Attack Squadron 130 (VAQ-130) “Zappers” crashed near Mount Rainier, Washington, on Oct. 15, 2024 at 3:23 p.m. local time. The aircraft wreckage was located in the mountainous region by search teams on Wednesday, October 16. The fate of the two naval aviators aboard the Growler at the time of the crash remained unknown until Oct. 21, 2024, when the U.S. Navy identified them as Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay “Miley” Evans and Lt. Serena “Dug” Wileman.
According to the service, both women were leaders, trailblazers, and inspirations to countless individuals, both on and off the flight deck.
Both aviators had recently returned from a nine-month deployment aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) as part of Carrier Air Wing Three, taking part in several operations in the Red Sea, including Operations Inherent Resolve, Prosperity Guardian, and Poseidon Archer.
“During their deployment, both Evans and Wileman distinguished themselves in combat operations,” says an eulogy published on the DVIDS network. “Their efforts directly contributed to the Navy’s mission defending U.S. and Coalition forces while keeping the seas open and free with precision and purpose. These role models cemented legacies by making history that will inspire future generations of Naval officers and aviators”.
Lyndsay “Miley” Evans
After her time at the University of Southern California, Evans was commissioned through ROTC and earned her Wings of Gold at NAS Pensacola. Known for her quiet professionalism and strong leadership, she quickly made a name for herself within the EA-18G Growler community. Her tactical expertise and mentorship of junior officers earned her widespread respect.
Evans’ career was filled with remarkable achievements, including a participation in the all-female Super Bowl flyover, marking 50 years of women in naval aviation. However, her accomplishments extended far beyond this public milestone. She became a Growler Tactics Instructor (GTI) after completing the rigorous HAVOC course, where she developed new tactics for electronic warfare. Her efforts in combat earned her the prestigious Growler Tactics Instructor of the Year award for FY2024.
During her 2023-24 deployment with CVW-3 and the IKE Carrier Strike Group (IKE CSG) in the Red Sea, Evans coordinated and executed multiple combat strikes into Houthi-controlled territories in Yemen, making her one of the few women to fly combat missions over land. In her critical role as VAQ-130’s Training Officer, she helped develop and execute new warfare tactics that required knowledge, innovation, and a comprehensive understanding of aerial warfare and electronic attack in a nascent theater against a constantly evolving threat. The tactics, techniques, and procedures for the EA-18G she pioneered defending against Houthi aggressions directly contributed to the successful defense of the entire CSG and will be used as a template for adaptability at the unrelenting pace of combat in future fights.
Evans was awarded two Single Action Air Medals for her exceptional performance during strikes on January 12 and 22, 2024. She also earned three Strike Flight Air Medals for her contributions to missions flown between December 21, 2023, and March 29, 2024.
Serena “Dug” Wileman
Wileman, a California native, was a rising star in the squadron. Commissioned through Officer Candidate School, she quickly earned a reputation for her infectious enthusiasm, positivity, and unwavering commitment to her team. As a senior first-tour aviator, Wileman flew several combat missions into Yemen and played a crucial role in ensuring the success of the squadron’s operations.
During her 2023-24 deployment, Wileman planned and subsequently flew multiple strikes into Houthi-controlled territories in Yemen, one of the few women to fly combat missions over land. Wileman’s exceptional leadership was highlighted during VAQ-130’s “Dirt Det,” where she was designated the Officer in Charge. Overcoming the challenges of operating from an austere location, she successfully oversaw all detachment operations enabling the support of multiple flights in the defense of U.S. and Coalition forces in support of Operations INHERENT RESOLVE and PROSPERITY GUARDIAN.
Always a team player, Wileman was also a respected qualified Landing Signal Officer (LSO), a vital role in the squadron to ensure her fellow Naval Aviators safely recovered aboard the ship. Despite operating in a weapons engagement zone, her calm and collected demeanor under pressure showed during combat operations. Even when recovering alerts while IKE was being targeted and the CSG was under attack by Houthi terrorists, she executed flawlessly, bringing all CVW-3 aircraft aboard expeditiously and safely. From the LSO platform, Wileman always showcased her extraordinary composure and consistent ability to perform under pressure.
Due to her unrelenting efforts, Wileman accrued three Strike Flight Air Medals for her role in combat operations between December 17, 2023, and April 5, 2024.
Outside of her professional accomplishments, Wileman was known for her warm personality and genuine care for others. She had an undeniable ability to lift the spirits of those around her, always offering a joke or a kind word when it was needed most.
A Lasting Bond and Legacy
Evans and Wileman shared a deep connection with their families, friends, and each other. Both were known for their humor and the light-heartedness they brought to difficult situations, creating a sense of camaraderie and unity among their fellow aviators. Whether leading critical combat missions or supporting their teammates, these women were true leaders in every sense.
The impact they made on Naval Aviation will continue to inspire generations. Their stories are ones of courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to service. As the Navy mourns their loss, the legacies of Lt. Cmdr. Lyndsay Evans and Lt. Serena Wileman will endure, remembered by those who served alongside them and the future aviators who will look up to their example.
