FORMER Los Angeles Dodger’s player Steve Sax has revealed his son was one of the five Marines killed in a training flight crash earlier this week.

Sax said his son, Captain John J Sax, “knew he wanted to be a pilot since his young years.”

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“It is with complete devastation that I announce that my precious son, Johnny was on of the five (5) US Marines that perished on Wednesday, June 8, in the Osprey Military crash near San Diego,” Sax said in a statement.

“For those of you that knew Johnny, you saw his huge smile, bright light, his love for his family, the Marines, the joy of flying airplanes and defending our country!

“He was my hero and the best man I know, there was no better person to defend our country.”

Sax continued, saying “There was never any doubt from a young age that Johnny would be a pilot and his passion was to fly!”

“I am so proud of the man he became and so proud to call him my son!

“This loss will change my life forever and is a loss to not only the Marines but this world!”

Sax played in the MLB from 1981 to 1994.

The second baseman had a career batting average of .281.

He was a member of the Dodgers when they won the World Series in 1981 and 1988.

Sax also played for the New York Yankees, the Chicago White Sox, and the Oakland Athletics.

The Dodgers released a statement via Twitter offering their condolences.

“The Los Angeles Dodgers are saddened to hear about the passing of Steve Sax’s son, John, and the five Marines who lost their lives in this week’s tragic helicopter accident.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to their families and friends.”

Captain Sax was based in Camp Pendleton, having served for close to six years.

He received a handful of awards and accolades during his time in the Marines, including the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and a Letter of Appreciation.

Captain Sax died along with four others in the crash: Captain Nicholas P Losapio, Corporal Nathan E Carlson, Corporal Seth D Rasmuson, and Lance Corporal Evan A Strickland.

In response to the crash, a safety pause has been ordered by the Naval Air Forces.

All non-deployed Navy aviation units will conduct trainings on June 13.

Additionally,  risk-management practices will be conducted, as well as trainings on threat and error-management processes.

“In order to maintain the readiness of our force, we must ensure the safety of our people remains one of our top priorities,” a statement from the Naval Air Forces Public Affairs reads.

“Deployed units will conduct the safety pause at the earliest possible opportunity.”

The crash is being investigated.