The U.S. Army has officially released the name of the third pilot involved in last week’s tragic Black Hawk helicopter collision with an American Airlines regional jet, identifying her as Captain Rebecca M. Lobach, a highly accomplished 28-year-old aviator with a distinguished record of service.
The disclosure comes after an unusual request from Lobach’s family to initially withhold her identity, a move that underscores the deep grief surrounding the loss of such an extraordinary individual.
Captain Lobach, a native of North Carolina, was more than just a pilot—she was a scholar, a leader, and a servant to both her nation and her community. A standout student at the University of North Carolina, she graduated as a top ROTC cadet, placing in the top 20% nationwide. Her military career was marked by excellence, rising to the rank of Captain and earning pilot-in-command status after rigorous training and testing. With over 500 hours of flight time—considered high for a captain—she was seen as an exceptional talent in Army aviation.
NEWS: After privately grieving, Capt. Rebecca Lobach's family recognized that waiting to release her name was feeding narratives that distracted from the incredible person and pilot that Rebecca was, a person familiar with the family’s decision told @Militarydotcom.
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— Thomas Novelly (@TomNovelly) February 1, 2025
Her dedication to service extended far beyond the cockpit. Lobach was honored to serve as a White House Military Social Aide, assisting in prestigious events such as the Medal of Honor and Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremonies. She also took on the critical role of a Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) Victim Advocate, demonstrating her commitment to protecting and supporting others. Her work in this field deeply shaped her aspirations—she had planned to attend medical school after her time in the Army, determined to continue serving in a new capacity.
Army releases name of co-pilot of Blackhawk helicopter: Captain Rebecca Lobach, a star ROTC student who graduated from UNC with top honors and wanted to attend medical school after her Army service. She had 500 hours of flying time, about 250 flights, considered on the high end… pic.twitter.com/NmFtS47vWk
— Jennifer Griffin (@JenGriffinFNC) February 1, 2025
Her family’s statement paints a vivid picture of a woman who was as compassionate as she was courageous. “Rebecca was a warrior and would not hesitate to defend her country in battle. But she was as graceful as she was fierce,” they wrote, emphasizing her drive, kindness, and unwavering sense of duty. “Most of all, she loved and was loved.”
The loss of Captain Lobach, along with Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Eaves and Staff Sergeant Ryan O’Hara, is a profound tragedy—not only for their families but for the military community and the nation as a whole. These service members dedicated their lives to protecting the country, and their sacrifice will not be forgotten.
STATEMENT FROM THE FAMILY of Capt Rebecca Lobach, the Army Blackhawk co-pilot:
“We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Rebecca. She was a bright star in all our lives. She was kind, generous, brilliant, funny, ambitious and strong. No one dreamed bigger or worked harder to… https://t.co/nbAy1o2I35— Jennifer Griffin (@JenGriffinFNC) February 1, 2025