"The Black Hawk crash ushered in a wave of disinformation from social media focusing on diversity, inclusion and equity, or DEI. The Trump administration, including Hegseth, has pledged to wipe out diversity efforts across the government.

There were claims the female pilot was a transgender pilot from the Virginia National Guard named Jo Ellis. Ellis has posted a "proof of life" video on Facebook, denouncing the rumors and offering condolences to those killed in the crash.

Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., herself a decorated former Black Hawk pilot, told NPR she understood why the family initially declined to make their loved one's name public.

"We should be respecting the family's wishes at a time when they have suffered an unbelievable loss," Duckworth said.

"I think it is a perfectly legitimate request the family would make. And I'm glad that the Army is honoring that request."

'Earned her place': Friends grieve Rebecca Lobach, US Army pilot killed in DC crash'

Lobach, a 28-year-old aviation officer assigned to the 12th Aviation Battalion, was the only female pilot on the flight. In an unusual move, the Army granted her family's request to hold her name before it was released on Saturday evening.

It came after President Donald Trump, with little explanation, pointed the finger at DEI, or diversity, equity, and inclusion, practices as a factor behind the crash.

"Not only did she deserve what she achieved, but she was overqualified most of the time for what she was able to accomplish," said Capt. Bilal Kordab, who recruited Lobach to the North Carolina National Guard.

"Nothing was just handed to her."

more on her background

'Captain Sully 'Disgusted' by Trump's Remarks on DC Plane Crash'

""I don't want to draw you into politics but if you have a reaction to what the president said today about this, please share it with us," host Lawrence O'Donnell said.

Sullenberger replied: "Not surprised. Disgusted."