The CH-53 Super Stallion crashed Feb. 6, 2024, during a night flight when it hit a mountain near Pine Valley, California, killing all five Marines aboard.
Included in the awards and decorations the now-sergeant deceptively wore were the Purple Heart, the Combat Action Ribbon and Joint Meritorious Unit Award.
A new East Coast F-35 squadron and key Valkyrie drone test mark significant steps in the Corps's push toward more nimble and responsive air combat power.