Tributes have continued to pour in following the death of Lieutenant Lily-Mae Fisher, the UK’s only serving female Royal Navy Commando, who was killed in a helicopter crash in Devon just days before she was due to receive her Pilot’s Wings.

The 31-year-old officer died alongside Petty Officer Owen Green, 24, and Lieutenant Commander Chris Gayson, 42, after their Merlin Mk4 helicopter crash-landed near Sourton, close to Okehampton, during the early hours of Wednesday, June 3. Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.

The Royal Navy described Lieutenant Fisher as an exceptional individual whose achievements, determination and leadership inspired colleagues and aspiring service personnel alike. Her death comes at what should have been a milestone moment in her military career, as she was completing the final stages of flying training.

Originally from Virginia Water in Surrey, Fisher built an impressive record of achievement long before joining the armed forces. A talented athlete from a young age, she competed in regional netball, represented England in junior lacrosse and took part in pole vault competitions during her education.

Her passion for aviation developed while attending university, where she joined military training programmes that introduced her to flying. After completing an MSc and working as a geologist for two years, she joined the Royal Navy in 2019 and quickly established herself as a highly capable officer.

Alongside her military commitments, Fisher represented Great Britain at the European Age Group Triathlon Championships while continuing flight training. During a pause in aviation training, she completed the demanding All Arms Commando Course, becoming Britain’s only serving female Royal Navy Commando.

She later supported Operation ISOTROPE, the UK military operation focused on responding to Channel crossings, helping coordinate naval resources aimed at protecting lives at sea.