Tragedy struck on Monday (July 10) when a plane transporting U.S. military members crashed in Leflore County, Mississippi. A report conducted by Mississippi News Now revealed that 15 Marines and one Navy Corpsman were killed in the crash.
According to the U.S. Naval Institute, the crash is “the deadliest Marine Corps aviation mishap since 2005.” A Marine Corps spokesperson stated that the KC-130T aircraft was traveling from Marine Corps Air Station at Cherry Point, North Carolina and was on its way to Naval Air Field in El Centro, California.
The Leflore County Emergency Operations Center stated that the aircraft experienced a structural failure when it was at 20,000 feet. Based on evidence and debris found at the crash site, investigators believe the aircraft exploded in the air.
As of right now, the Marine Corps say their main focus “is to provide the necessary support and resources to friends, family, and service members who are going through this difficult time.”
People all over the country have been sending in their prayers and condolences since news broke about the crash. One of the most moving tributes came from a man who stopped on the side of the highway to honor the service members who lost their lives.
David Weeks pulled off on the side of the road in Leflore County to play “Taps” as a way of honoring the military members killed in the crash. “Taps” is a bugle call that is traditionally played during flag ceremonies and military funerals.
With cars driving past, Weeks raised his bugle up to the sky and began to play. Although his tribute was short and simple, each note contained a wealth of power.
Someone happened to film the moment, and we have it here to share. It’s sure to bring a tear to your eye.
Our prayers go out to the families of the service members killed in the crash.