The United States Marine Corps has confirmed the death of Lance Cpl. Chukwuemeka E. Oforah, a 21 year old Florida native of Nigerian descent, who fell overboard in the Caribbean while on active duty.
Oforah fell from the USS Iwo Jima on February 7 during maritime operations in the region. Despite an intensive three day search effort involving five Navy ships and 10 aircraft, rescue teams were unable to recover him. The military officially ended the search on February 10 and pronounced him dead.
In a statement, the Marine Corps said the circumstances surrounding the incident remain under formal investigation. Authorities have not yet disclosed details about how the fall occurred.
Col. Tom Trimble, commanding officer of the Marine Expeditionary Unit Special Operations Capable, described Oforah’s death as a profound loss to the Navy Marine Corps team. He said the young Marine’s dedication and service would not be forgotten.
Oforah was deployed in support of Operation Southern Spear, a United States military mission targeting suspected drug trafficking activities in the Caribbean region. The operation has involved multiple naval deployments and coordinated maritime security efforts.
The USS Iwo Jima has played a central role in the mission, serving as a platform for operations in the region. United States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has defended the operation’s objectives, stating that it aims to combat narco terrorism and protect the United States from illegal drug flows.
Oforah’s death has drawn tributes from fellow service members and community leaders, who described him as a dedicated Marine whose service and sacrifice will be remembered.
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