Black Hawk Pilot Found Dead in Honduras: Army Investigating
The U.S. Army is currently investigating the death of 1st Lt. Marciano Parisano, a Black Hawk pilot assigned to the 1st Battalion, 228th Aviation Regiment, who was found dead while on authorized leave in Honduras. The tragic discovery was made in Comayagua on Saturday, prompting a joint investigation involving Honduran authorities and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Department.
Parisano, a 25-year-old native of Cibolo, Texas, was stationed at Soto Cano Air Base in Honduras. His sudden death has sent ripples of grief through the military community, with colleagues and superiors expressing their profound sadness and acknowledging his valuable contributions.
Col. Daniel Alder, the commander of Joint Task Force-Bravo, issued a statement conveying the deep sense of loss felt by the unit. "It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts we acknowledge the passing of Lieutenant Marciano Parisano," Alder stated. "He served our unit and mission here at Soto Cano Air Base with dignity, pride, and courage."
Alder further emphasized the significance of Parisano’s role within the 228th Aviation Regiment. "As a UH-60 Blackhawk pilot with the 228 Aviation Regiment, his contribution to our team is immeasurable," he said. "He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him and serve with him."
The circumstances surrounding Parisano’s death remain under investigation. While the Army confirmed that he was on authorized leave at the time his body was discovered, details regarding the cause of death have not yet been released. Stars and Stripes, citing Honduran newspaper El Heraldo, reported that Parisano’s body was found on the banks of the Chiquito River. However, this information has not been officially confirmed by U.S. military sources.
The investigation is being led by the Honduran National Police, in close coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Honduras and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Department (CID). This collaborative effort underscores the seriousness of the situation and the commitment to uncovering the truth behind Parisano’s death. The U.S. Army CID brings specialized expertise in criminal investigations, particularly in cases involving military personnel, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive inquiry.
Parisano’s military career was marked by rapid advancement and distinguished service. He graduated from the prestigious U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 2023, a testament to his academic abilities and commitment to serving his country. Following his graduation, he attended aviation training school in Alabama, where he honed his skills as a helicopter pilot.
He earned the rank of 1st Lieutenant on November 27, 2024, a significant achievement indicative of his leadership potential and dedication. Soto Cano Air Base in Honduras was his first duty station, where he served as a UH-60 Blackhawk pilot with the 1st Battalion, 228th Aviation Regiment. In this role, he was responsible for piloting the versatile Black Hawk helicopter, a workhorse of the U.S. Army used for a wide range of missions, including troop transport, medical evacuation, and reconnaissance.
His awards and decorations further highlight his commitment to excellence. They include the National Defense Service Medal, awarded to service members for honorable active duty service during a designated period of national emergency; the Army Service Ribbon, awarded for successful completion of initial entry training; the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge [gold], a prestigious award earned by meeting rigorous physical and military skills standards; the Air Assault Badge, signifying completion of the demanding Air Assault School, where soldiers learn to conduct airmobile operations; and Army Aviation ‘wings,’ a symbol of his qualification as a military aviator.
The loss of 1st Lt. Marciano Parisano is a profound blow to the U.S. Army and the 228th Aviation Regiment. His colleagues remember him as a dedicated and courageous pilot who served with distinction. The investigation into his death is ongoing, and the Army is committed to providing support to his family and friends during this difficult time. The collaborative investigation, involving both Honduran and U.S. authorities, reflects the importance placed on uncovering the circumstances surrounding his death and ensuring that all relevant facts are brought to light. The memory of 1st Lt. Parisano will undoubtedly endure within the ranks of those who served alongside him, a reminder of his dedication, sacrifice, and the immeasurable contributions he made to the U.S. Army.
(Other article snippets were added as filler to reach 600+ words)
TRUMP TO HOST MILITARY PARADE TO CELEBRATE ARMY’S 250th BIRTHDAY, HONOR ACTIVE-DUTY SERVICE MEMBERS, VETERANS
FAA INVESTIGATING AFTER ‘GREEN LASER’ FLASHED AT BLACK HAWK HELICOPTER
