Still, the Coast Guard remains optimistic that the search may still end in a recovery. "He was wearing a dry suit, and the fact that the other crew members were able to get out of the helicopter is a sign that this person may have been able to get out," spokesman John Miller told FoxNews.com.
Currently a Coast Guard cutter and another small boat are searching the 42-degree waters outside Norfolk. Navy sailors are trained to survive such incidents, with both physical and mental training along with appropriate clothing and protection. The MH-53E Sea Dragons have three engines, are 99-feet long, hold a crew of eight (maximum), and are capable of speeds over 170 miles per hour. They're generally used for locating sea mines and perform onboard delivery missions. The Virginia Beach Fire Department has located the aircraft's tail section, and the crash is currently under investigation. The helicopters have a history of bad crashes. Names of the Navy sailors will be released 24 hours after their families have been notified.