The sudden deaths of two sailors aboard the USS George Washington shortly after reaching Yokosuka, Japan, have sparked intensifying investigations from both NCIS and local authorities.
At a Glance
- Two sailors died aboard USS George Washington post-arrival in Japan.
- Petty Officer 2nd Class Cuyler Burnett Condon and Seaman Dimitri Isacc Morales were the victims.
- NCIS and Japanese authorities are investigating.
- The USS George Washington has a history of onboard suicides.
Tragic Losses Occur in Japan
The USS George Washington had only just tied up to its new homeport in Yokosuka, Japan, when it experienced the unexpected deaths of two sailors, adding to the tragic history of the ship. Petty Officer 2nd Class Cuyler Burnett Condon was found unresponsive inside an on-base hotel room on November 22—the day of the ship’s return. Subsequently, Seaman Dimitri Isacc Morales was discovered lifeless off-base in Yokosuka on November 25.
No immediate cause of death has been disclosed for either sailor, and the circumstances have intensified calls for clarity from both NCIS and the local Japanese law enforcement working on the case. Condon and Morales’ unexpected passings have once again drawn attention to the challenges faced by USS George Washington crew members.
Two Navy sailors assigned to the aircraft carrier USS George Washington died shortly after arriving at the ship’s new homeport in Japan, according to a NavyTimes article published on Dec. 3.https://t.co/OHAv0WNnJd pic.twitter.com/80rGW6L5CW
— WAVY TV 10 (@WAVY_News) December 4, 2024
Current Investigations
The lengthy investigatory process not only involves the Naval Criminal Investigative Service but also includes Japanese authorities due to Morales’ death off base. The cooperation is crucial as details remain scarce, with Morales’ mother expressing uncertainty regarding the circumstances surrounding her son’s passing. Her sentiment echoes that of many bereaved families seeking justice for their loved ones.
“We still do not know what happened to him and have zero details about his death” said Svetlana Kashirina, Seaman Morales’ mother.
The USS George Washington had undergone extensive maintenance in Norfolk, Virginia, before its deployment to Japan, a period marked by a troubling history of suicides. From 2017 to 2023, the ship saw eleven suicides, raising concerns about systemic issues including access to critical services such as food and housing.
Two sailors assigned to the USS George Washington died within days of each other shortly after the aircraft carrier arrived in Japan, officials and family members said. https://t.co/Jb3PeQtRmE
— NBC4 Washington (@nbcwashington) December 6, 2024
The Road Ahead for the USS George Washington
The USS George Washington is expected to remain in Japan as the only forward-deployed carrier of its kind, emphasizing its strategic importance. Nevertheless, the recent deaths and past suicides have prompted the Navy to offer additional support and counseling services to its crew members.
Vice Adm. Fred Kacher emphasized the carrier’s role as a substantial asset to maritime security efforts in Japan and the broader Western Pacific. “a U.S. carrier represents the most advanced maritime capability and is a significant investment in the security of Japan and the Western Pacific.”
The investigations continue, with many hoping they will highlight further necessary changes to prevent future tragedies. As the Navy advocates for personnel in crisis to utilize available resources, the spotlight remains on ensuring a supportive environment for those aboard the USS George Washington.
Sources:
- https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2024/12/03/two-uss-george-washington-sailors-die-after-ships-arrival-in-japan/
- https://www.bostonherald.com/2024/12/04/us-navy-sailors-dead-japan-uss-george-washington/?ref=redicate.com
- https://www.nbcnews.com/news/military/two-uss-george-washington-sailors-die-japan-rcna182869
- https://americanmilitarynews.com/2024/12/2-us-navy-sailors-die-shortly-after-ship-arrives-in-japan/
