The Marine Corps held a ceremony at the commandant’s headquarters to award the highest noncombat medal to the parents of Cpl. Spencer Collart. Collart died following a crash of his V-22 Osprey in Australia last year. Despite surviving the crash, Collart courageously re-entered the burning aircraft to rescue the trapped pilots. Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Eric Smith commended Collart’s selfless actions, acknowledging his bravery and putting the safety of his fellow Marines before his own.
Gen. Smith, visibly emotional during the ceremony, praised Collart’s parents, Bart and Alexia Collart from Arlington, Virginia, for raising a Marine who exhibited exceptional courage and valor. The tragic crash in August 2023 was part of a series of fatal accidents involving the Osprey since 2022, prompting closer examination of the aircraft’s mechanical and safety issues. Ongoing reviews are assessing the resources necessary to enhance the Osprey’s reliability.
Bart Collart expressed pride in his son, referring to him as an exemplary individual and highlighting the pilots’ and Spencer’s sacrifices in ensuring the safety of the Marines onboard. He credited the pilots for their efforts to stabilize the Osprey before impact, potentially saving the lives of the troops being transported. The Osprey, involved in an Australian military exercise, faced difficulties while attempting to avoid a lead aircraft, leading to the fatal crash.
Witness reports from the crash investigation revealed that Collart, serving as the crew chief, acted swiftly to secure the safety of the Marines onboard. Despite escaping the burning aircraft and assisting others, Collart valiantly re-entered to aid Capt. Eleanor LeBeau and Maj. Tobin Lewis, who were trapped inside. Investigators believe Collart attempted to free Maj. Lewis from his restraints before succumbing to the smoke and flames.
Lt. Gen. Ben Watson, father of one of the surviving Marines, attended the ceremony to honor Collart’s heroism. Watson, a former commanding general of the First Marine Division, expressed gratitude for Collart’s bravery and sacrifice. The Marine Corps continues to pay tribute to fallen heroes like Collart, recognizing their unwavering dedication and service to their fellow Marines.
