Marine Dies in Surveillance Flight Crash in the Philippines

Marine Dies in Surveillance Flight Crash in the Philippines

Sergeant Jacob M. Durham, a Marine serving as an electronic intelligence/electromagnetic warfare analyst, was identified as one of the four individuals who died in a surveillance flight crash in the Philippines last Thursday. The crash also claimed the lives of three defense contractors, whose identities have not yet been released.

The aircraft, a Marine Corps Beechcraft King Air 350, was conducting a routine mission in support of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation activities when it went down in the southern province of Maguindanao del Sur. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.

Sergeant Durham, a California native, joined the Marine Corps in January 2021 and was recently promoted to his current rank on February 1st. He was assigned to the 1st Radio Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force.

"We mourn the loss of Sgt. Jacob Durham, who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country," said Lt. Col. Mabel B. Annunziata, commanding officer of 1st Radio Battalion. "Sgt. Durham embodied the highest traditions of the Marine Corps – exemplifying composure, intelligence, and selfless leadership. He was deeply respected and loved by his fellow Marines. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and his fellow Marines during this profoundly difficult time."

Sergeant Durham earned numerous awards and decorations during his service, including the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, a Meritorious Mast, and Naval Aircrew Insignia.

The Department of Defense and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command expressed their condolences to the families of all those who perished in the crash. The investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing.