USS ESSEX -- Lance Cpl. Matthew J. Determan, 21, of Ahwatukee, Arizona died Tuesday of injuries sustained during an MV-22B Osprey mishap while conducting training at Marine Corps Training Area – Bellows.
Determan was a rifleman assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines. He was stationed at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California prior to deploying with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. His awards include the National Defense Service Medal and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
“Lance Cpl. Determan represents the best America has to offer,” said Col Vance L. Cryer, commanding officer, 15th MEU. “Our country and our Corps are poorer for his loss, but his example will continue to inspire us."
“I would like to thank all of those individuals who selflessly, and without regard to their own safety, responded on-scene at Sunday’s mishap. You have the undying gratitude of everyone in the 15th MEU for your heroic efforts. Words cannot adequately express our appreciation.”
“I also want to thank the medical staffs at Tripler Army Medical Center, The Queen’s Medical Center, and Castle Medical Center for both your immediate response, and the compassion, professionalism, and skill you showed in caring for our Marines.”
“Lastly, I want to say thank you for the overwhelming outpouring of support from Bellows Air Force Station, Marine Corps Training Area – Bellows, Wounded Warrior Detachment Hawaii, the Marines, sailors, and civilians of Marine Corps Base Hawaii, 3rd Marines, Marine Forces Pacific and I Marine Expeditionary Force, and everyone in the local communities. The donations of food, clothing, comfort items, care baskets and your expressions of support were a point of light in this difficult time. Your efforts over the last few days are proof of the strength of the military family and our bonds with our civilian neighbors.”
“Please continue to keep everyone in your thoughts and prayers. They will certainly be on the minds of everyone in the MEU as we continue our deployment.”