Sgt. Jacob Durham, Marine Corps Analyst, Dies in Philippines Plane Crash

Sgt. Jacob M. Durham has been identified by the Marine Corps as the service member who lost his life in a plane crash in the southern Philippines on Feb. 6. Durham, an analyst specializing in electronic intelligence and electromagnetic warfare, was among four individuals on board a Beechcraft King Air 350 that was providing reconnaissance support when it crashed in Maguindanao del Sur. According to U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, three contractors working for the Pentagon also lost their lives in the incident.

Originally from California, Durham enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2021 and was recently elevated to sergeant on February 1, just days before the unfortunate crash. He received an assignment to the 1st Radio Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group. He received several awards, including the Naval Aircrew Insignia, Meritorious Mast, and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal.

The aircraft was performing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations at the request of the Philippine government. Officials have not yet revealed the cause of the crash, and the investigation is still in progress.

“We grieve the passing of Sgt. Jacob Durham, who gave everything for our nation,” stated Lt. Col. Mabel B. Annunziata, Durham’s commanding officer. “He represented the finest values of the Marine Corps—demonstrating poise, intellect, and altruistic leadership.”

The Marine Corps, in collaboration with the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, is actively engaging with Philippine authorities to investigate the cause of the crash. At the same time, heartfelt tributes keep coming in for Durham, who earned tremendous respect from his fellow Marines.

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