Britain’s Only Female Royal Navy Commando Among Three Heroes Killed in Devastating Merlin Helicopter Crash Over Devon

The peaceful countryside of Sourton Down near Okehampton in Devon turned into a scene of unimaginable heartbreak in the pre-dawn hours of Wednesday, June 3, 2026. A Royal Navy Merlin Mk4 helicopter, carrying three dedicated service members on what was supposed to be a routine training flight, crashed violently into a field, claiming all lives on board. The tragedy has left the Royal Navy, the Commando Helicopter Force, and the entire nation reeling, as tributes pour in for three remarkable individuals whose bright futures were cut short in an instant.

Lieutenant Lily-Mae Fisher, 31, Lieutenant Commander Chris Gayson, 42, and Petty Officer Owen Green, 24, embodied the very best of British military service — courage, professionalism, and an unyielding commitment to pushing boundaries. Their loss during a standard training exercise between RNAS Yeovilton in Somerset and RNAS Culdrose in Cornwall has sparked profound sorrow across the armed forces and beyond, highlighting both the dangers inherent in military aviation and the extraordinary human stories behind the uniforms.

Lily-Mae Fisher’s story stands out as one of trailblazing determination and inspiration. Based in Yeovil, Somerset, she joined the Royal Navy in May 2019 and quickly rose as a pioneering figure. In June 2022, she became Britain’s only serving female Royal Navy Commando, earning the prestigious green beret after completing the gruelling 16-week All Arms Commando Course — a feat demanding relentless physical and mental endurance.

Her social media presence captured the raw reality of that journey. Sharing a photo from the course, she wrote poignantly: “In this photo I was so broken, 16 weeks of relentless physical and mental challenges. Just being thankful each evening I was still there, uninjured, and passing.” She spoke openly about moments of doubt — “I don’t know if I can pass” or “this is the hardest thing I have ever done” — but credited her success to “mental resilience, the stubbornness, the drive.”

At the time of the crash, Lt Fisher was in the final stages of her flying training on the Merlin helicopter. She was due to receive her Pilot’s Wings later in June 2026 — a milestone she had chased for years after overcoming multiple challenges, including a five-year struggle with military applications followed by rigorous courses. “It’s been a long road, but I’m so proud and happy to be here!” she had shared triumphantly after stepping into the Merlin cockpit.

Her family’s tribute captures her vibrant spirit: “Lily-Mae was an extraordinary woman, daughter, sister, and partner. To say she was full of life is an understatement: she took every opportunity to push her limits, achieve more, and bring out the best in those around her. We are so proud of everything she accomplished. She has left an immeasurable hole in our lives.” They have asked for privacy during this devastating time.

Lily-Mae’s achievements resonated far and wide. NATO praised her groundbreaking role, and she inspired countless others, especially young women considering military careers. A talented sportswoman and Imperial College London graduate from Surrey, she balanced academic excellence with sporting achievements and her demanding service. Her story was one of overcoming fear of failure and embracing opportunities in a male-dominated field.

Lieutenant Commander Chris Gayson brought decades of expertise and quiet leadership to the cockpit. The 42-year-old from Somerset had studied for a Masters in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Bath before a brief stint as an accountant with Deloitte. He joined the Royal Navy as a Warfare Pilot Officer in September 2008 and earned his Pilot Wings in October 2012.

His career included service with 845 Naval Air Squadron, roles as Air Safety Officer, and becoming Senior Pilot of 846 Naval Air Squadron in 2020. Colleagues described him as an “utmost professional” whose leadership was exemplary. His family remembered him as “an extremely kind and gentle family man who loved his entire family dearly” and remained deeply passionate about his Royal Navy career.

The Royal Navy highlighted the huge blow his loss represents: “An utmost professional, his leadership of the Operational Conversion Flight was exemplary.” Lt Cdr Gayson’s experience, academic background, and dedication made him a cornerstone of his squadron, mentoring others while upholding the highest safety and operational standards.

Petty Officer Owen Green, at just 24, represented youthful promise and rapid achievement. Joining the Royal Navy in January 2022, he progressed swiftly and excelled as a Junglie Aircrewman with 845 Naval Air Squadron. He played key roles in major exercises, including demanding Arctic operations where he accumulated some of the highest flying hours among his peers.

His family’s words are heartbreaking: “Losing Owen has left us all devastated. His life was far too short, and our hearts will forever be broken. He was a caring and devoted son, brother, grandson, and partner to Iona, whom he loved and cherished. His kindness, warmth, and character touched everyone who knew him.” They expressed pride in his achievement of serving as a Junglie Aircrewman and the joy he brought to their lives.

The Merlin Mk4 helicopter, a vital asset for the Commando Helicopter Force supporting Royal Marines, crashed around 3:45am into a field at Sourton Down, close to the Okehampton battle camp — a familiar training ground on the edge of Dartmoor. The aircraft was completely destroyed, but crucially, it avoided nearby homes or populated areas. Emergency services, including Devon and Cornwall Police and search and rescue teams, responded swiftly, though there was no chance of survival.

Tributes have flooded in from across the military and government. Defence Secretary John Healey described the three as “dedicated and highly valued members of their squadrons who embodied the best of our Armed Forces.” Prime Minister Keir Starmer and senior Navy leaders offered condolences. General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, head of the Navy, expressed deep sadness and thanked responders.

Colonel Will Penkman, Commanding Officer of the Commando Helicopter Force, said: “It is a tragedy that we lost three members of the CHF family yesterday. Cherished members of the force with bright futures ahead of them, they were all highly committed professionals infused with the Junglie spirit of the force. Their loss leaves a terrible gap in our hearts.”

Air Vice-Marshal Lee Turner of Joint Aviation Command spoke of “profound sadness” and the loss of “three deeply capable and professional aviators.” Flowers have appeared near the crash site, and the community around Yeovilton and Okehampton has come together in mourning.

The Commando Helicopter Force, known for its “Junglie” ethos of toughness, adaptability, and elite operations, trains rigorously for real-world missions. Training flights like this one simulate challenging conditions over varied terrain such as Dartmoor. The Merlin Mk4 supports troop transport, logistics, and a wide range of tasks in demanding environments. While accidents are rare, each one prompts thorough investigation by the Defence Accident Investigation Branch to uncover causes and enhance safety.

This incident raises important reflections on the risks service members accept daily. Whether in Arctic exercises, combat deployments, or routine proficiency flights, they operate at the edge of capability. The timing for Lily-Mae Fisher — on her final assessment flight, mere weeks from earning her wings — adds a particularly poignant layer of tragedy to an already devastating event.

Beyond their professional achievements, these three were deeply loved individuals. Lily-Mae inspired through her openness about struggles and triumphs. Chris balanced family life with exemplary service. Owen brought warmth and dedication in his short but impactful career. Their stories humanize the armed forces, reminding us of the personal sacrifices behind national defense.

The crash site near Sourton Down, with its rugged Dartmoor backdrop, now holds a solemn significance. Investigations continue, with wreckage analysis and witness statements underway. The military has assured the public that lessons will be learned to prevent similar tragedies. In the meantime, the focus remains on supporting the grieving families and honoring the fallen.

For the families, the pain is immeasurable. Partners, parents, siblings, and loved ones must navigate sudden loss amid public attention. Military welfare services and the broader community offer support, but the private voids — missed milestones, empty seats at gatherings, unfulfilled dreams — will linger. Lily-Mae’s partner, Chris’s family, and Owen’s partner Iona face a future forever altered.

This tragedy also spotlights progress and challenges in military diversity. Lily-Mae Fisher’s breakthrough as the only female Royal Navy Commando symbolized opening doors for others. Her story encourages resilience and ambition, even as it underscores the shared risks all service members face regardless of background.

Across social media and in military circles, tributes celebrate their legacies. Colleagues recall shared flights, training hardships, and moments of camaraderie. Veterans and civilians alike express gratitude for their service. The “Junglie spirit” they embodied — toughness paired with humanity — continues to define the force they served.

As Devon’s countryside returns to its usual tranquility, the memories of these three heroes endure. Lieutenant Lily-Mae Fisher, with her green beret and infectious drive; Lieutenant Commander Chris Gayson, the steady professional and family man; Petty Officer Owen Green, the promising young aircrewman full of warmth. Their final flight, though ending in heartbreak, was part of a greater mission of service and excellence.

The Royal Navy and the nation will honor them through memorials, continued operations, and by carrying forward the standards they upheld. Investigations will provide answers over time, but the immediate impact is clear: three bright lights extinguished too soon, leaving families, comrades, and admirers to mourn while celebrating lives lived with purpose and passion.

In the skies over Devon and beyond, the Merlin helicopters will fly again, guided by the examples set by Fisher, Gayson, and Green. Their sacrifice reinforces the profound respect owed to those who serve. To their loved ones: the country stands with you in grief and gratitude. May their spirits continue to inspire, their legacies enduring as testaments to courage, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of service. (Word count: 2256)