UPDATE: Search and Rescue Operations Underway for U.S. Marines off the Coast of Japan

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP BUTLER, Okinawa, Japan - The United States Marine Corps confirms one of the personnel involved in the mishap is being evaluated by competent medical authorities at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni. 

The search and rescue operations continue for the remaining six U.S. Marines who were aboard a KC-130 Hercules and an F/A-18 Hornet involved in a mishap about 200 miles off of the coast of Japan around 2:00 a.m. Dec. 6. 

We are thankful for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's efforts as they immediately responded in the search and rescue operation.

The circumstances of the mishap are currently under investigation. We will provide additional information as it becomes available. Media can contact the III Marine Expeditionary Force media desk at IIIMEFMEDIA@usmc.mil.