Never Forgotten: Honoring the 16 Heroes of Yanky 72
- Eddie Oliver
- Jul 9
- 2 min read
On July 10, 2017, a profound tragedy shook the United States military and echoed across the nation. A U.S. Marine Corps KC-130T aircraft, carrying the call sign Yanky 72, suffered a catastrophic mid-air malfunction over Leflore County, Mississippi.
The crash claimed the lives of all 16 elite service members on board.
The flight carried nine crew members from Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 452 (VMGR-452) and seven passengers from the 2nd Marine Raider Battalion.
They were traveling from North Carolina to Arizona for routine tactical training when the accident occurred.
Today, we write their names, share their stories, and ensure that their ultimate sacrifice is never forgotten.
The Crew: VMGR-452
Based out of Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, New York, the "Yankees" of VMGR-452 are a tight-knit Marine Corps Reserve squadron. The nine crew members lost that day were experienced, dedicated, and deeply respected by their peers.
Maj. Caine M. Goyette — A dedicated pilot and leader.
Capt. Sean E. Elliott — An accomplished aircraft commander.
GySgt. Mark A. Hopkins — A skilled navigator and mentor.
GySgt. Brendan C. Johnson — A veteran crewmaster who loved the skies.
SSgt. Joshua M. Snowden — A passionate flight engineer.
Sgt. Julian M. Kevianne — A reliable and talented flight mechanic.
Sgt. Owen J. Lennon — A proud crewmaster following a family tradition of service.
Cpl. Daniel I. Baldassare — A motivated crewmember who always lifted spirits.
Cpl. Collin J. Schaaff — A dedicated aircraft ordnance technician.
The Passengers: 2nd Marine Raider Battalion
The seven passengers on board belonged to the elite Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC), based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. This group consisted of six fiercely capable Marine Raiders and one brave U.S. Navy Corpsman.
SSgt. Robert H. Cox — A battle-tested Critical Skills Operator.
SSgt. William J. Kundrat — A seasoned leader and dedicated Raider.
Sgt. Chad E. Jenson — A fierce competitor and elite warrior.
Sgt. Talon R. Leach — A highly capable and driven operator.
Sgt. Joseph J. Murray — A devoted father, husband, and elite Marine.
Sgt. Dietrich A. Schmieman — A proud Raider who lived life to the fullest.
HM1 Ryan M. Lohrey (USN) — A brave Navy Sailor keeping his Marines safe.
A Legacy of Faithfulness
These men were more than their ranks and titles. They were loving husbands, devoted fathers, proud sons, loyal brothers, and irreplaceable teammates. They represented the absolute best of our country, stepping forward to serve a cause greater than themselves.
As the years pass, the pain of their absence remains, but so does the pride in their legacy. To the families they left behind and the brothers-in-arms who carry their torch: we stand with you.
Fair winds and following seas, brothers.
SEMPER FIDELIS.
Join the Conversation
How are you honoring the memory of Yanky 72 today? Leave a comment below to share your thoughts, prayers, or memories of these incredible service members.
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