Staff Reports
A tragic accident at Camp Pendleton, California has left one Marine dead and fourteen others injured after an Amphibious Combat Vehicle rolled over during a training exercise. The incident occurred on Tuesday night near Camp Horno on the northern end of the base and involved steep terrain, resulting in the vehicle rolling over at approximately 6 p.m.
Marine Killed, 14 Others Hospitalized After Accident at Camp Pendleton https://t.co/OP9uQ67g9M
— IJR (@TheIJR) December 14, 2023
The 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit has been shaken by this devastating accident, with the Marines choosing not to release the names of those involved. This is a stark reminder of the dangers our brave men and women face during training exercises to keep our nation safe.
Amphibious Combat Vehicles have been a source of concern due to their checkered history, including a pause in their use in 2020 over towing mechanism concerns and subsequent accidents in 2022 leading to another stoppage in their operations. In fact, a 2022 congressional report revealed that a shocking 32 percent of active-duty military fatalities were due to accidents, far outweighing combat-related deaths.
Furthermore, a Government Accountability Office investigation found that over 120 soldiers and Marines had been killed in accidents involving non-combat tactical vehicles between 2011 and 2021. These statistics are a sobering reminder of the risks our military personnel face, even during routine training exercises.
The tragic loss of Marine 1st Lt. Hugh Conor McDowell in 2020, as well as the recent fatalities in the Amphibious Combat Vehicle accident at Camp Pendleton, serve as painful reminders of the grave dangers that accompany military service. The families of those lost have been outspoken in demanding better safety measures to protect our troops during training, highlighting the critical need for change to prevent further losses.
As Americans, it’s crucial that we show our unwavering support for our armed forces and advocate for their safety as they selflessly protect our freedom and security. The sacrifices made by our military personnel, including the ultimate sacrifice of their lives, must never be forgotten or minimized. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those affected by this tragic accident, and we must come together to ensure the safety and well-being of our brave servicemen and women.
