11th MEU Mourns the Loss of Cpl. Spears

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY --

The Marines and Sailors of the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit mourn the loss of one of their own.

Cpl. Jordan L. Spears, 21, a tiltrotor crew chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 163 (Reinforced), 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, died while supporting operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility, Oct. 1.

Spears enlisted in the Marine Corps Oct. 14, 2010 out of Memphis, Indiana.

This was Spears’ first deployment. His personal and service awards include the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

“Cpl. Spears was a cherished member of our MEU family, and he fulfilled a key role in our aviation combat element. His absence will be felt throughout the unit. My heart goes out to his family, and they will remain in our thoughts and prayers,” said Col. Matthew Trollinger, commanding officer of the 11th MEU.

The memorial for Cpl. Spears, onboard the USS Makin Island, will be held in the coming days.

-USMC-

All releasable information is contained in this release. Media may direct their correspondence to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs Officer, Capt. Josh Diddams, at joshua.diddams@makin-island.usmc.mil.

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