Kathmandu, Nepal – A decade ago, Nepal faced unimaginable tragedy. Today, the echoes of that devastating earthquake were met not just with somber reflection, but with a powerful display of enduring friendship and profound sacrifice. On May 12, 2025, US Marines stood shoulder-to-shoulder with their Nepali Army counterparts at the Nepali Army Military Museum, marking the 10th anniversary of Operation Sahayogi Haat – the joint relief effort that brought hope amidst the rubble.

Distinguished guests, including US Ambassador to Nepal Dean Thompson and top military brass from both nations, Major General Brian Wolford of the US Marine Corps and Major General Kiran K. C. of the Nepali Army, gathered for a wreath-laying ceremony that spoke volumes about the bond forged in crisis.

Ambassador Thompson opened the ceremony by recalling the horrific April 2015 earthquake and the incredible resilience shown by the Nepali people. "Amid the rubble, suffering, and uncertainty," he stated, "the people of Nepal showed extraordinary resilience. In solidarity, the international community responded."

Operation Sahayogi Haat saw approximately 900 US service members join forces with Nepali partners, delivering vital aid following the two massive quakes in April and May 2015. It was a mission of mercy, reaching desperate communities cut off by landslides and destruction.

But the path of aid was fraught with danger, and for one group, hope turned to heartbreaking loss. During the second earthquake on May 12, 2015, a UH-1Y helicopter, call sign Vengeance 01, disappeared while on a humanitarian mission. It was later found crashed near Charikot. On board were six brave US Marines, two dedicated Nepali Army officers, and five Nepali civilians.

Today, their names were remembered – not just as service members or citizens, but as sons and daughters, friends, and family:

1. Lance Cpl. Jacob A. Hug (USMC)
2. Sgt. Ward M. Johnson IV (USMC)
3. Mr. Lok Bahadur Katawai Chhetri (Civilian)
4. Mrs. Sabitri Khadka Siwakotl (Civilian)
5. Mr. Yam Bahadur Khatri (Civilian)
6. Mr. Sain Dhoj Khatri (Civilian)
7. Mr. Dhruba Kumar KC (Civilian)
8. Capt. Dustin R. Lukasiewicz (USMC)
9. Cpl. Sara A. Medina (USMC)
10. Capt. Christopher L. Norgen (USMC)
11. Maj. Tapendra Rawal (Nepali Army)
12. Sgt. Eric M. Seaman (USMC)
13. Warrant Officer 1 Basanta Titara (Nepali Army)

Ambassador Thompson poignantly reminded attendees that their sacrifice "lived on in every life saved, in every home rebuilt, and in the strength of the bond between the United States and Nepal."

During the ceremony, two Marines, accompanied by the distinguished visitors, placed simple yet profound Gerbera Daisy wreaths at the Eternal Flame and the Vengeance 01 Memorials. A shared salute, the mournful call of a bugle, and a hushed moment of silence filled the air, a collective breath held for the fallen. A beautiful marble plaque, a gift from the Marine Security Guard Detachment Kathmandu to the Nepali Army, was presented, ensuring the memory of those aboard Vengeance 01 would endure.

Major General Wolford spoke from the heart about the power of their shared mission. "What this really demonstrates," he said, "is that the power of two friends, two militaries, can do together to help those in need... It’s always amazing to me how much we’re going to sacrifice for our brothers and sisters." He emphasized that the environment of crisis revealed "a strength of humanity and power."

But perhaps the most touching moments came after the formal proceedings. Marines stepped forward, not just as military figures, but as fellow humans, to speak with the family members of the lost Nepali Army officers, Major Rawal and Warrant Officer Titara. Amidst shared cups of Nepalese tea and quiet conversation, a profound sense of connection and mutual respect filled the air. As a final, deeply personal gesture, Marines from HMLA 169 presented the families with unit patches from HMLA 469 – the squadron of the lost Vengeance 01 crew – a small piece of their legacy to hold onto.

As the gathering concluded, Ambassador Thompson's final words lingered, a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy. "In remembering their courage, we renew our commitment to compassion, partnership, and peace... May we never forget their service. May the memories inspire future generations. May they forever rest in peace."

The ceremony was a powerful reminder that even a decade later, the bonds forged in the face of disaster remain strong, and the sacrifices made are deeply, personally remembered by those who stood, and continue to stand, together.