Helicopter Crash Cause

I am writing regarding the Jan. 10 statements of Rep. Robert E. Badham (R-Newport Beach) regarding the crash of the CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter.

I am a friend and neighbor of Maj. David J. Brandenburg. He was the pilot who was killed in that crash.

The Marine Corps declined to speculate regarding the cause of the crash. Badham, however, immediately assumed it was due to “pilot error.”

I believe his comments were premature and in bad taste. The Marine Corps is instituting an investigation into the cause of the crash. The appropriate thing to do would be to wait until this investigation is completed.

Badham seems more concerned about the tarnished reputation of the Super Stallion helicopter than the memory of the deceased crew and their families.

In my opinion Rep. Badham owes an apology to the deceased crew members and their families.

GLENN F. LIBBY

Irvine