Maj. Brophy (Marine Corps photo)
OKINAWA, JAPAN – One of the five US Marines killed after being
involved in a December 6 F/A 18 and KC-130 incident off the coast of Kochi,
Japan was a resident of Dutchess County.
Major James Brophy, 36, of Staatsburg died in the crash. He was assigned
along with the other four victims to Marine Aerial Refuel Transport Squadron
152.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the names of our fallen
Marines,” said Marine Corps Lt. Col. Mitchell Maury, commanding
officer of VMGR-152. “They were exceptional aviators, Marines, and
friends whom will be eternally missed.”
Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro said Brophy “will forever
be remembered as an American hero who selflessly sacrificed to protect
our homeland and the values we hold dear.”
Molinaro said while as a nation, “we enjoy unparalleled freedom…,
it comes at a cost. Like countless brave men and women before him, James
bravely and freely served his fellow Americans – both his neighbors
here in Dutchess County, and millions more he never met, living in towns,
villages, and cities throughout our great land – to safeguard our
way of life.”
The county executive said, “Having given his life for his country,
James leaves a legacy of service to his country and honor to his family,
friends, and community.”
Maj. James M. Brophy served 12 years in the Marine Corps. His decorations
include the Air Medal with two Strike Flight Awards, one Navy and Marine
Corps Commendation Medal, and one Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.
He is survived by his wife, son and daughter.
Flags on all Dutchess County buildings will remain at half-staff in
honor of Brophy.
Also killed in the incident were Lt. Col. Kevin Hermann, 38, of New Bern,
North Carolina; Staff Sgt. Maximo Flores, 27, of Surprise, Arizona; Cpl
Daniel Baker, 21, of Tremont, Illinois; and Cpl. William Ross, 21 of Hendersonville,
Tennessee.
