FATAL HELICOPTER CRASH AT FT. CAMPBELL
FT. CAMPBELL, KY — June 12, 2025 — The U.S. Army community is mourning the loss of one of its own following a devastating helicopter crash at Ft. Campbell that occurred during a routine training exercise on the evening of June 11. The fatal incident took place at approximately 7:00 PM within the Ft. Campbell training area, shaking the base and surrounding community.
According to officials from the installation, two soldiers were aboard the helicopter when it went down under still-unclear circumstances. Emergency response teams rushed to the scene, but tragically, one soldier was pronounced dead at the site. The other was transported to Blanchfield Army Community Hospital, where they remain in stable condition, receiving treatment and support.
At this time, the names of the soldiers involved are being withheld pending notification of next of kin, in accordance with military protocol. The identity of the fallen soldier will be released publicly once the family has been notified and given appropriate time to grieve in private.
Military and civilian investigators are currently examining the cause of the crash, and an official inquiry has been launched. The type of helicopter involved, as well as additional mission details, have not yet been disclosed as the investigation remains active.
Brigadier General Michael H. McCarthy, a senior official at Ft. Campbell, issued a brief statement late Wednesday night:
“This is a heartbreaking day for the 101st Airborne Division and the entire Ft. Campbell family. We lost a brave soldier in the line of duty, and another is recovering. Our hearts are heavy, and our prayers are with the families, friends, and teammates of those affected. We will stand with them and support them every step of the way.”
The tragic accident has cast a somber shadow over Ft. Campbell, home to the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault)—one of the U.S. Army’s most storied and active combat units. Known for its demanding training operations, Ft. Campbell has unfortunately experienced several aviation-related incidents in the past, highlighting the inherent risks of military flight and readiness exercises.
As news of the incident spread, messages of support and condolences poured in from military families, veterans, and local residents. A makeshift memorial has already begun forming at one of the base’s main entrances, with flags, flowers, and handwritten notes left in tribute to the fallen soldier.
Military chaplains and counseling services have been made available to service members, families, and staff affected by the loss. Grief counselors are also assisting those who witnessed or responded to the crash.
The investigation will be led by the U.S. Army Combat Readiness Center, which is responsible for probing all Class A aviation accidents involving military personnel and equipment. A comprehensive review is expected to take weeks, if not longer, as officials comb through flight data, maintenance records, and crew training logs.
As the community waits for answers, one thing is clear: the sacrifice made on June 11 will not be forgotten. The soldier who lost their life did so in the service of their country, engaged in the kind of demanding and often dangerous training that prepares troops for missions around the world.
Please keep these soldiers, their families, and the entire Ft. Campbell community in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Further details, including the identities of those involved and any findings from the investigation, will be released as they become available.
