'The best of what America represents'

Image courtesy: Seaman Brian Brooks

Lt. Steven Zilberman was born in Ukraine, but felt attached to Columbus, Ohio, after arriving in America. In fact, he called the city home, as well as the nation he protected as a naval aviator since enlisting almost eight years ago. His Navy career culminated as a pilot for the famous Bluetails, formally known as Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 121. Lt. Zilberman flew an E-2C Hawkeye like the plane shown above, which was recently photographed on the U.S.S. George H.W. Bush.

According to the Pentagon, Zilberman's plane crashed in the Arabian Sea on Wednesday. The early warning aircraft had flown a mission above Afghanistan, and was only about five miles from the U.S.S. Dwight D. Eisenhower when it crashed. The four-person crew parachuted from the plane, and three were safely recovered. Zilberman was not found, and was officially declared deceased on Saturday evening after an intense, exhaustive search.

A story released by the U.S. Naval Forces, 5th Fleet Public Affairs said Zilberman was an exceptional pilot.

"This is a heart-wrenching loss for the Zilberman family and the Bluetail family" said Cmdr. Joseph F. Finn, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron 121's commanding officer. "It is our exceptional people that are the strength of our community and our Navy. Steven was one such individual. He bravely and willingly accepted the risks of an inherently dangerous job. He was a fine aviator and we are better people for having him in our lives. I extend my deepest sympathy to Steven's family and friends. He will not be forgotten."

Zilberman leaves behind a wife and two young children. Please consider a donation to the VAW/VRC Memorial Scholarship Fund in the fallen aviator's honor. Zilberman will be saluted by the military, family, and friends on Thursday in Norfolk, Virginia. Capt. Roy Kelley called Zilberman "the best of what America represents," and there is probably no better way to sum up the aviator's sacrifice. Our nation is a beacon of freedom because men and women from around the world can come here and do extraordinary things.

Lt. Steven Zilberman had a very difficult job, monitoring congested skies above critical targets in war zones. He will be greatly missed by his loved ones and fellow aviators. For his extraordinary skills and admirable efforts, the boy from Ukraine who grew into the elite Navy pilot from Columbus, Ohio, will always be remembered as an American hero.

Note: Corrections were made to this post on April 7. My sincere thanks to a reader, Jack, for his insight and honorable service.