One of the two soldiers, who survived last Wednesday’s helicopter crash that claimed the lives of five servicemen, suffered second degree burns and a broken rib, Prime Minister Mark Phillips has reported.

 During Monday’s sitting of the National Assembly, the Prime Minister said while the two survivors – Lieutenant Andio Crawford and Corporal Dwayne Jackson – are recovering well, Corporal Jackson remains a patient in the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), where he is being treated for a broken rib and 2nd degree burns.

“Corporal Dwayne Jackson, on a comprehensive examination over the past 48 hours, has been found to have a broken right fourth rib and second-degree burns. While these findings are not life threatening, Corporal Jackson is ongoing treatment including dressing and antibiotics and pain relief,” the Prime Minister disclosed.  

He said Corporal Jackson remains fully conscious and in good spirits, and is surrounded by his family as he undergoes treatment at the public hospital.

News Source understands that when the helicopter crashed through trees and eventually hit the ground, bursting into flames, it was Jackson who pulled the other pilot, Lt. Crawford and Staff Sergeant Khan from the helicopter. By then, the other three servicemen were already dead. Khan reportedly died hours after the crash from massive burns and other injuries.

GDF Pilot, Lieutenant Crawford, has been making a good recovery. He is said to be badly traumatized by the deadly crash and all that he witnessed and experienced.

“Lieutenant Crawford can walk and move unaided. He is receiving appropriate treatment and remains fully conscious, oriented and coherent. In good spirits, Lieutenant Crawford is accompanied by relatives during this time,” the Prime Minister said.

The helicopter crash claimed the lives of Brigadier Gary Beaton, Colonel Michael Shahoud, Lt. Colonel Shawn Welcome, Lt. Colonel Michael Charles, and Staff Sergeant Jason Khan.

In his update to the National Assembly, the Prime Minister provided a detailed breakdown of the search and rescue mission from the time the Force lost contact with the helicopter on Wednesday to the point of extraction on Friday.

He said the nation remains in deep mourning for the loss of the fallen servicemen, who at the time were providing support to the country’s military men and women at the border locations.  

“May the legacy of the fallen soldiers endure as a symbol of valor within the Force, providing strengthen and inspiration during this profound sorrow.  Mr. Speaker, I also wish recovery to Lieutenant Andio Crawford and Corporal Dwayne Jackson and offer sincere condolences on the loss of their comrades. We are grateful for their courage and resilience. It would be remembered with great respect and gratitude from our country. We are thankful that despite the adverse conditions and against the odds, they were able to return home to their families,” Prime Minister Phillips told the Assembly.

He said servicemen were the embodiment of courage, dedication and selflessness and served with valor and were ready to defend the country against any threat. 

In honour of the fallen servicemen, the Government has named the Eccles to Diamond four-lane highway – the Heroes’ Highway.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority and the Guyana Police Force are leading the investigations into the crash.  

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