On January 29, 2025, a routine training mission near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport took a devastating turn. A Black Hawk helicopter collided with an American Airlines jet, killing all three soldiers on board. Among them was Capt. Rebecca M. Lobach, a 28-year-old aviation officer.
Rebecca served in the United States Army from July 2019 to January 2025, assigned to the 12th Aviation Battalion at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. A distinguished military graduate from the University of North Carolina, the late pilot ranked among the top 20% of cadets nationwide and quickly rose through the ranks, earning the title of pilot-in-command after completing over 450 hours of flight time.
She also served as a White House Military Social Aide, assisting at events for the President and First Lady, including the Medal of Honor and Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremonies.
Following the accident, the U.S. Army expressed their condolences:
“Our deepest condolences go out to her family, and all the families who are mourning the loss of their loved ones impacted by this devastating accident. We continue to work with the families of our fallen Soldiers and support the ongoing investigations.”
Rebecca’s loss is immeasurable, but those who knew her remember not just the accomplished soldier, but the kind and driven person behind the uniform. Here’s a look at her family, who are now grappling with an unimaginable loss.
Related: Was Rebecca Lobach Married At The Time of Her Death?
Who Are Her Parents?
The identities of Rebecca Lobach’s parents have not been publicly disclosed, but their grief is unmistakable. Following her tragic passing, her parents, along with other family members, released a heartfelt statement expressing their sorrow and the immense loss they now carry.
“We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Rebecca. She was a bright star in all our lives. She was kind, generous, brilliant, funny, ambitious, and strong. No one dreamed bigger or worked harder to achieve her goals.”
Rebecca was so much more than a soldier. Her family described a woman whose presence and influence went well beyond her military service.
“Rebecca was many things. She was a daughter, sister, partner, and friend. She was a servant, a caregiver, an advocate. Most of all, she loved and was loved. Her life was short, but she made a difference in the lives of all who knew her. Our hearts break for the other families who have lost loved ones in this national tragedy, and we mourn with them.”
In closing, they made a simple request:
“We request that you please respect our privacy as we grieve this devastating loss.”
