Andrew Eaves Obituary
The small town of Brooksville, Mississippi is in mourning after one of their own, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Eaves, was killed in a mid-air collision near Washington, D.C., Wednesday night.
Eaves graduated from Central Academy in Macon, Mississippi. A member of the crew of three on a Black Hawk helicopter, he died when his helicopter was in collision with an oncoming American Eagle jet while approaching Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The accident proved to be fatal and took the lives of 60 passengers and four crewmen on board the airliner, plus the helicopter crew.
His wife made the heart-wrenching confirmation in a Facebook post, asking for prayers and privacy while their family grieves.
“I’m sure by now all of you have heard the news of the tragedy that has occurred in D.C. My husband was one of the pilots of the Black Hawk. We ask that you pray for our family and friends and for all of the other families that are suffering today. We ask for peace while we grieve.”
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves tweeted, “Mississippi is mourning the loss of Brooksville native Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Eaves, who was killed in last night’s accident at Reagan National Airport. Elee and I are praying for the victims’ families and first responders who are assisting.”
Friends and fellow service members took to social media to honor Eaves as well. Terry Paul, who trained with him in warrant officer candidate school, shared this moving tribute:
“On the very first day of Warrant Officer Candidate School, our instructor told us to look to our left and right and that someone in this class would not be here in the next 10 years. Unfortunately, that came true on January 29th. Andrew Eaves, you will be sorely missed, my friend. May you rest in peace, knowing your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. You were one hell of a Warrant Officer and a damn good pilot. Rest easy, brother.”.
‘Your story is bigger than a single moment. You’re the sum of your strength, your kindness, and the love you gave to the world.’ Blue skies and tailwinds, brother.”
Eaves’ legacy as a dedicated pilot and popular member of the Brooksville community will endure. His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten by his family, friends, and those who served with him.
