Sgt. Jacob M. Durham, a 22 years old U.S. Marine stationed at Camp Pendleton, California, was one among four individuals who perished in a plane crash in the southern Philippines, according to military officials. The fatal incident happened on the grounds of a rice field. The aircraft was carrying out a routine mission for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance at the request of the Philippines.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines verified the crash of the light plane in the province of Maguindanao del Sur. Rescue teams managed to retrieve the bodies from the wreckage located in Ampatuan town. Alongside Sgt. Durham, three defense contractors were also confirmed deceased; further investigation into the cause of the crash is still ongoing.
Wind Beaty, a provincial disaster-mitigation officer, reported residents in the vicinity observed smoke emanating from the aircraft, followed by an explosion. The plane then descended rapidly, crashing less than a kilometer away from a group of farmhouses.
According to official accounts, Sgt. Durham enlisted in the Marines in January 2021, receiving a promotion to his current rank on February 1 of the same year. He was an electronic intelligence/electromagnetic warfare analyst, serving with the 1st Radio Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group. His commendations include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, a Meritorious Mast, and Naval Aircrew Insignia.
Lt. Col. Mabel B. Annunziata, the commanding officer of 1st Radio Battalion, attested to Sgt. Durhams exceptional service, noting his calm demeanor, intelligence, and leadership. Sgt. Durham was highly regarded among his peers.
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