ARLINGTON, VA., May 28, 2025 – Military Times and the Military Times Foundation have recognized the extraordinary bravery and coordination of the U.S. Coast Guard team from Station Washington for their heroic actions following the tragic mid-air collision near Washington, D.C., on January 29, 2025. Under the decisive leadership of Lieutenant Commander Kim Jenish, the team launched an immediate and unified response after American Airlines Flight 5342 collided with a U.S. Army helicopter over the icy Potomac River.
The catastrophic accident claimed the lives of all 64 passengers and crew aboard the plane, as well as all three helicopter crew members. In the wake of the collision, the Coast Guard team from Station Washington deployed without hesitation, conducting intensive search and rescue operations in frigid, dangerous conditions.
Lt. Cmdr. Jenish’s leadership was instrumental in coordinating the multi-agency response, including the rapid establishment of the initial incident command post. Her team — a blend of seasoned professionals and rising Coast Guardsmen — worked tirelessly to carry out both rescue and recovery missions with professionalism, compassion, and unwavering resolve.
The initial Coast Guard response team recognized includes:
- Lieutenant Craig Oravitz
- Chaplain McGarity
- Chief Logan Kellogg
- Chief Jason Seraphin
- Chief Petty Officer Ryan Rawding
- Petty Officer First Class Tyler McGuinness
- Petty Officer First Class Daniel Russo
- Petty Officer First Class Ryan Smith
- Petty Officer First Class Anthony Wallace
- Petty Officer First Class James Nugent
- Petty Officer Second Class Brandon Williams
- Petty Officer Third Class Fabian Monorrez
- Petty Officer Third Class Austin Vicars
- Petty Officer Third Class Ian Frigiola
- Petty Officer Third Class Danielle Zins
- Seaman Nathan Cruz
- Fireman Colten McGalliard
“This was an all-hands effort under incredibly difficult circumstances,” said Michael Reinstein, Chairman of the Military Times Foundation. “Lieutenant Commander Jenish and her team embodied the Coast Guard’s core values of honor, respect, and devotion to duty. Their response was swift, selfless, and deeply impactful during one of the region’s most tragic emergencies in recent memory.”
This recognition is part of the Military Times Service Members of the Year Awards, which honor service members across all branches who go far beyond the call of duty. Proceeds from the annual event support nonprofit organizations that serve military families and veterans.
Sponsors of the event include Fisher House Foundation, USAA, Veteran Benefits Guide, Leonardo DRS and Capital Bank. For more information on the selection process, history of the award, past winners, and other details, visit: servicemembersoftheyear.org
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Contact
Kelly Facer
Military Times Foundation
703-585-9523
kfacer@mco.com