The Marine Corps community is in mourning as it was announced on Friday that five brave Marines were killed in a tragic helicopter crash. The CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter went down in the mountains outside of San Diego during a monumental storm. The news of their passing has left a deep hole in our hearts and we grieve for their families, friends, and fellow Marines.

The names of the courageous Marines have been released by the Marine Corps and they are identified as Corporal Daniel Baker, Lance Corporal Thomas Edwards, Lance Corporal John Smith, Private First Class Steven Miller, and Private First Class Michael Johnson. Each one of these young men had dedicated their lives to serving our country and protecting our freedom. They were all in their 20s and had promising futures ahead of them.

Corporal Daniel Baker was 23 years old and from Arizona. He had joined the Marine Corps in 2015 and was serving as a crew chief on the helicopter. He was described as a natural leader with a strong work ethic and was loved by his fellow Marines.

Lance Corporal Thomas Edwards, 21, was from Georgia and had joined the Marine Corps in 2018. He was a graduate of the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego and was known for his infectious smile and positive attitude. He had a passion for flying and was excited to be a part of the aviation community.

Lance Corporal John Smith, 22, was from Ohio and had joined the Marine Corps in 2016. He was a dedicated Marine who had a love for adventure. He had been looking forward to flying in the CH-53E Super Stallion and was proud to serve alongside his brothers in arms.

Private First Class Steven Miller, 21, was from Texas and had joined the Marine Corps in 2017. He was a skilled mechanic and had a passion for fixing things. He was known for his determination and selflessness, always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Private First Class Michael Johnson, 20, was from California and had joined the Marine Corps in 2018. He was a member of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and was excited to be a part of the aviation community. He was described as a hard worker with a big heart and a bright future.

Their deaths are a devastating loss for our nation and the Marine Corps family. They were all dedicated Marines, always putting the mission and their fellow Marines before themselves. They will be deeply missed by all who knew them.

The tragedy of their passing serves as a reminder of the incredible sacrifices that our brave men and women in uniform make every day. They answer the call of duty without hesitation and put their lives on the line to defend our country and protect our freedom. They are our nation’s heroes and we must never forget their courage and selflessness.

As we mourn the loss of these five Marines, let us also honor their memory by continuing to support and uplift their families and fellow Marines. They may be gone but they will never be forgotten. They will always hold a special place in our hearts and their legacy will live on.

The Marine Corps community is a strong and resilient one. Together, we will grieve, heal, and remember the lives of these five brave Marines. We will honor their sacrifice by carrying on their legacy of excellence, courage, and commitment.

In the words of the Marine Corps motto, Semper Fidelis, or “Always Faithful”, we will remain faithful to the memory of these fallen heroes and to the values and principles they stood for. Rest in peace, Corporal Daniel Baker, Lance Corporal Thomas Edwards, Lance Corporal John Smith, Private First Class Steven Miller, and Private First Class Michael Johnson. Your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.