On Thursday, August 26, 2021, a deadly attack outside Kabul's airport in Afghanistan claimed the lives of 13 United States service members. The attack was executed by the Islamic State terror group, specifically ISIS-K, which later claimed responsibility for the "martyrdom attack." At least 18 service members were also injured in the attack.
Department of Defense released the names of the fallen service members Saturday, August 28, 2021. The deceased from the Marine Corps include:
Staff Sgt. Darin T. Hoover, 31, from Salt Lake City, Utah Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo, 25, from Lawrence, Massachusetts Sgt. Nicole L. Gee, 23, from Sacramento, California Cpl. Hunter Lopez, 22, from Indio, California Cpl. Daegan W. Page, 23, from Omaha, Nebraska Cpl. Humberto A. Sanchez, 22, from Logansport, Indiana Lance Cpl. David L. Espinoza, 20, from Rio Bravo, Texas Lance Cpl. Jared M. Schmitz, 20, from St. Charles, Missouri Lance Cpl. Rylee J. McCollum, 20, from Jackson, Wyoming Lance Cpl. Dylan R. Merola, 20, from Rancho Cucamonga, California Lance Cpl. Kareem M. Nikoui, 20, from Norco, CaliforniaIn addition to the Marines, Navy Hospitalman Maxton W. Soviak, 22, from Berlin Heights, Ohio, and Army Staff Sgt. Ryan C. Knauss, 23, from Corryton, Tennessee, were also killed the attack.
The fallen service members have been mourned by their families, friends, government officials, and strangers across social media platforms. Tributes and condolences have poured in to honor their sacrifice and service.
Following the attack, there were indications that the United States would carry out additional airstrikes against ISIS-K in response to the attack.
