Marine Honored for Bravery in Tragic Osprey Incident

Well, folks, it seems our brave men and women in uniform continue to astound us with their selfless acts of heroism. Today, we’re honoring a true American hero who made the ultimate sacrifice. So, buckle up and prepare to be inspired by a story that’ll make you proud to be an American.

A Hero’s Final Act

Cpl. Spencer R. Collart, a 21-year-old U.S. Marine from Arlington, Virginia, will be posthumously awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his extraordinary bravery during a tragic Osprey crash in Australia. This young man, who enlisted on his 18th birthday, exemplified the Marine Corps’ values of honor, courage, and commitment in his final moments.

On August 27, 2023, during an Australian military exercise, an MV-22B Osprey aircraft crashed, claiming the lives of three Marines. What sets Cpl. Collart apart is his selfless decision to re-enter the burning aircraft to save his trapped comrades, despite having initially escaped the wreckage himself.

The Troubled History of the Osprey

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNPb_OdunHo

The V-22 Osprey, a hybrid aircraft capable of vertical takeoff and landing, has been plagued by a series of fatal accidents. This latest incident marks the fourth deadly crash in just two years, raising serious questions about the aircraft’s safety and reliability.

https://twitter.com/USNavy/status/1696619724051460096

A Life of Dedication and Aspiration

Cpl. Collart was not just another statistic. He was a goal-driven individual with dreams of becoming a pilot. His personal effects, including a Marine Corps cap with a 2nd lieutenant’s gold “butter bar” and pilot’s wings, speak volumes about his aspirations and dedication to service.

“He wanted to be an officer and a pilot,” said Alexia Collart, Spencer’s mother. “He had goals, and he was achieving them.”

Spencer’s commitment to his fellow Marines was evident throughout his service. He formed close bonds with his comrades and even served as a pallbearer for Lance Cpl. Evan Strickland, who tragically lost his life in a training crash in California in June 2022.

The Aftermath and Legacy

The loss of Cpl. Collart, along with Capt. Eleanor LeBeau and Maj. Tobin Lewis, has left a profound impact on their families and the Marine Corps community. The fourth crew member, Cpl. Travis Reyes, continues to recover from critical injuries sustained in the crash.

In a bittersweet turn of events, Spencer’s sister, Gwyneth Collart, married his fellow Marine and friend, Cpl. Jonah Waser. Their wedding reception, overlooking Arlington National Cemetery where Spencer is laid to rest, serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring bonds forged in the Marine Corps.

As we close this chapter on Cpl. Spencer R. Collart’s heroic story, let’s remember that freedom isn’t free. It’s paid for by the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day. So, the next time you see a Marine, take a moment to shake their hand and say thank you. They might just be the next hero among us.