Fort Campbell community leaders react to fatal helicopter crash in Kentucky

Craig Shoup, Nashville Tennessean
·2 min read

As a veteran-owned business, realtors at Keller Williams said Wednesday's helicopter crash that killed nine Fort Campbell soldiers hit close to home.

The realty company services the Clarksville and Fort Campbell communities.

"Please keep their families and friends in your thoughts and prayers. They are receiving the toughest news any military family and unit can receive."

"Freedom never has been and never will come without a cost. These brave men and women signed a blank check for each of us that included sacrificing their lives for our Freedom. Never forget that."

Brigadier General John Lubas address the press in regards to the Black Hawk crash that occurred early in the morning outside of Fort Campbell in Christian County, KY on Mar. 30, 2023. Soldiers were conducting a training mission when they crashed leaving nine dead.
Brigadier General John Lubas address the press in regards to the Black Hawk crash that occurred early in the morning outside of Fort Campbell in Christian County, KY on Mar. 30, 2023. Soldiers were conducting a training mission when they crashed leaving nine dead.

"Rest in Honor my Brothers and Sisters. Your mission is complete."

The crash left many in the Clarksville and nearby Kentucky communities reeling.

"Today is a tough and tragic day for Kentucky, for the Fort Campbell and for the 101st," Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said. "The nine individuals we lost are children of God. They will be mourned and missed by their families, by their communities."

One Black Hawk was carrying five, another four, according to Brig. Gen. John Lubas, who delivered information at a morning press conference.

The names of the nine who died in the crash were not released as investigators notify next of kin, he said.

This is a tragic loss for our families and Fort Campbell," Lubas said. "Our number one priority is caring for the families and soldiers in our combat aviation brigade."

The Clarksville and Kentucky communities surrounding Fort Campbell are reacting to the crash.

U.S. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell

"I am devastated to learn about the Army helicopter accident over Kentucky involving our brave 101st Airborne. My team is in contact with the Army and authorities on the ground. Please pray for our servicemembers and their families as we learn more."

U.S. Rep. Mark Green left 'heartbroken'

“Camie and I are heartbroken by the loss of nine 101st Airborne soldiers during an overnight training accident," U.S. Rep. Mark Green, whose district includes Clarksville.

Green is a military veteran and Clarksville resident, who advocates for veterans and active military through legislation and other supports.

"Fort Campbell is one of the closest-knit communities we’ve ever been a part of, and we know this loss is being felt heavily. Our prayers are with the families of those we lost. The loved ones left behind need all of our support. These moments serve as a stark reminder that freedom is never without sacrifice. America is grateful for their willingness to serve, and our hearts are broken that it came with such a high cost. We also want to thank all first responders from Trigg, Christian, and Marshall Counties for their swift response. Our hearts ache for these families.”

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Fort Campbell fatal Black Hawk helicopter crash communities react