U.S. Navy Sailor Missing Since June 8 Found Alive Aboard Ship

The Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Shiloh (CG 67) patrols the waters South of Japan, May 22, 2017. U.S. Navy Photo

A U.S. Navy sailor who went missing from the USS Shiloh over one week ago and was presumed dead has been found alive aboard the ship, the U.S. Navy said Thursday.

Petty Officer Peter Mims went missing from the USS Shiloh in the Philippine Sea on June 8, prompting a search that lasted 50 hours and involved Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Japan Coast Guard assets. The search has been suspended since June 11 after covering roughly 5,500 square miles.

The search has been suspended since June 11 after covering roughly 5,500 square miles.

The Navy said Mims, a Gas Turbine Systems Technician, was found alive on June 15 on board the ship, adding that the circumstances surrounding his disappearance are under investigation.

Sims is expected to be transferred to the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) for a medical evaluation, at which point a recommendation will be made for follow-on medical care.

“We are thankful to have found our missing shipmate and appreciate all the hard work of our Sailors and Japanese partners in searching for him,” said Rear Adm. Charles Williams, commander, Carrier Strike Group 5 and Task Force 70. “I am relieved that this Sailor’s family will not be joining the ranks of Gold Star Families that have sacrificed so much for our country.”