Memorial Services Honor Royal Navy Helicopter Crash Crew

Memorial services were held across Devon and Somerset to honor three Royal Navy crew members who died in a helicopter crash near Okehampton. The community gathered for prayers, tributes, and reflection, with officials and families paying respects.

Community Memorial Service for Royal Navy Crew

A community memorial service was held to honor three Royal Navy personnel who lost their lives in a helicopter crash. The incident occurred on Wednesday in Sourton, near Okehampton, Devon.

The deceased crew members were Lt Cdr Chris Gayson, aged 42, Lt Lily-Mae Fisher, aged 31, and Petty Officer Owen Green, aged 24. All three were based at RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset.

On Sunday afternoon, a special mass took place at All Saints Church in Okehampton to commemorate the crew.

Floral tributes with a written message left outside All Saints Church in Okehampton on Sunday afternoon. — A special memorial service took place at the All Saints Church in Okehampton on Sunday

Service Details and Community Impact

The memorial service was organized by Reverend Claire Reynolds, who expressed the profound impact the tragedy had on the local community.

"The tragic incident had hit the community hard and there was a great sense of sadness in the town,"

Reverend Reynolds described the service as consisting mainly of prayers and Bible readings, providing a moment of quiet reflection for attendees.

During the service, candles were lit in remembrance of the deceased crew members.

Reverend Claire Reynolds stood outside All Saints Church in Okehampton on Sunday afternoon. She has grey hair and has glasses on her head. — Reverend Claire Reynolds said candles were lit "in memory of those who died"

Reverend Reynolds also announced that a book of condolence would be opened on Monday at St James's Chapel in Okehampton. The intention is to present this book to the Navy or the families, depending on what is appropriate.

Additional Tributes Across Devon and Somerset

Tributes were also paid at the Fleet Air Arm Memorial Church in Yeovilton, Somerset. Community services took place at three other Devon churches: St Mary's Belstone, St Petroc's Inwardleigh (both near Okehampton), and St Thomas a Becket in Sourton.

Floral tributes were placed outside All Saints Church in Okehampton as a mark of respect.

Family and Official Statements

Earlier in the week, the families of the deceased paid tribute to their loved ones. The military described the crew as "deeply capable and professional aviators" and "cherished members" of the Commando Helicopter Force.

The King expressed his condolences, stating he was "profoundly shocked" and held the three service personnel "in the highest regard."

Tributes were also made by the Princess of Wales in her role as Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm, the head of the Royal Navy General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.