Marines killed in Aussie plane crash identified.
The Tragic Loss of Three U.S. Marines in Helicopter Crash
The devastating helicopter crash on an Australian island has claimed the lives of three brave U.S. Marines. The fallen heroes have been identified as Corporal Spencer R. Collart, Captain Eleanor V. LeBeau, and Major Tobin J. Lewis. They were among the 23 Marines on board the MV-22B Osprey when the accident occurred on Melville Island.
Collart, a skilled Osprey crew chief from Arlington, Virginia, LeBeau, a talented Osprey pilot from Belleville, Illinois, and Lewis, the executive officer of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 (VMM-363) from Jefferson, Colorado, will be deeply missed by their comrades and loved ones.
Tragic Consequences and Ongoing Recovery
The crash resulted in several critical injuries and the loss of three lives. The remaining 20 Marines were transported to Royal Darwin Hospital for medical treatment. Fortunately, 17 of them were treated for minor injuries and released. However, three Marines are still receiving medical care, with one in critical condition and the other two in stable condition.
This tragic incident occurred during a joint training exercise called “Predators Run,” which involved Australian, Japanese, and Philippine troops. The loss of these three Marines has deeply saddened the entire MRF-D family.
Col Brendan Sullivan, the commanding officer of the group’s unit, expressed his condolences, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of three respected and beloved members of the MRF-D family. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families and with all involved.”
The cause of the crash is currently under investigation, and the Marine Corps is fully committed to supporting the ongoing recovery and investigative efforts.
Marine Corps Deployment and Partnership
The Marine Corps has deployed approximately 2,000 Marines and sailors to Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, as part of Australia’s U.S. Force Posture Initiatives. This deployment aims to maintain a forward-postured contingency response force, enhance interoperability between forces, and strengthen the Australia-U.S. Alliance and security partnership.
During their six-month stay in Darwin, the unit will participate in various exercises and training events with the Australian Defence Force and other Allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region. This collaboration serves to strengthen the bonds between nations and ensure a robust security presence in the area.
Our hearts go out to the families of the fallen Marines, and we honor their sacrifice and dedication to serving their country.
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