The Marine Corps released the names Friday morning of the soldiers who died in the crash of the KC-130T Hercules in Mississippi July 10.
They are:
Staff Sgt. Joshua M. Snowden of Dallas, Texas, whose father lives in Atlanta.
The family released a statement saying:
“Words cannot adequately express the sadness and pain that have descended upon our family after the loss of our son and brother. He was a dedicated Marine, a steadfast friend, and an honorable man. He had an exuberant presence that could fill any space. You always knew when Joshua entered a room, and you always knew when he left. Joshua was a positive force in the life of everyone he met. He loved God, his country, his family, and his friends, his enthusiasm for Texas was unmatched. We have been overwhelmed by the support and love that we have received from friends, and Josh’s important role in so many people’s lives could not be more evident. He died serving his country, and we are proud of his 13 years of service. We grieve for Joshua and for the fifteen others who leave behind enormous voids in the hearts of their loved ones. To borrow the words of one of his friends, “heaven has gained one hell of an angel.”
Others killed in the tragedy include:
- Major Caine M. Goyette;
- Capt. Sean E. Elliott of Orange, Calif.;
- Gunnery Sgt. Mark A. Hopkins of Chesapeake, Va.;
- Gunnery Sgt. Brendan C. Johnson of Chittenden, Vt.;
- Sgt. Julian M. Kevianne of Dallas, Texas;
- Sgt. Owen J. Lennon of Rockland, N.Y.;
- Corporal Daniel I. Baldassare of Monmouth, N.J.;
- Corporal Collin J. Schaaff of Pierce, Wash.;
- Staff Sgt. Robert H. Cox of Ventura, Calif.;
- Staff Sgt. William J. Kundrat of Frederick, Md.;
- Sgt. Chad E. Jenson of Los Angeles, Calif.;
- Sgt. Talon R. Leach of Callaway, Mo.;
- Sgt. Joseph J. Murray of Duval, Fla.;
- Sgt. Dietrich A. Schmieman of Benton, Wash.;
- Petty Officer Ryan M. Lohrey of Middletown, Ind.
The plane developed trouble at high altitude and crashed in rural Mississippi Monday afternoon.
The military is investigating the crash, but has said there is no suspicion of foul play.
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