USS George H.W. Bush mourns the loss of Airman Apprentice (ABHAA)

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NORFOLK (NNS) -- NORFOLK – On Monday, Sept. 17, Airman Apprentice Joseph Min Naglak lost his life aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) when he was struck by the turning propeller of an E-2C Hawkeye after securing the aircraft to the flight deck.

Naglak, who enlisted in the Navy in his home state of New Jersey in April 2017, was an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Apprentice.  He reported to the ship four months later upon completion of his training in Pensacola, Florida.

The loss of a shipmate is a heartbreaking experience for a crew of a Naval vessel and those aboard USS George H.W. Bush will mourn Naglak’s passing and remember him always for his devoted service and sacrifice to our Nation.   

The cause of the mishap remains under investigation. USS George H.W. Bush has resumed flight operations and remains underway at sea to complete naval pilot aircraft carrier qualifications.

If you have questions, please contact CDR Dave Hecht, the Public Affairs Officer for Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic at (757) 836-4375 or by email at Richard.d.hecht@navy.mil.