WASHINGTON – In a touching ceremony at the Marine Corps commandant’s headquarters, the highest noncombat medal was posthumously awarded to the parents of Cpl. Spencer Collart. Last year, Collart tragically lost his life after his V-22 Osprey crashed in Australia.

Collart, a brave 21-year-old Marine, survived the initial crash but selflessly went back into the burning aircraft to try to save the trapped pilots.

Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Eric Smith, visibly moved, addressed the fallen Marine’s parents, Bart and Alexia Collart, from Arlington, Virginia. He praised their son’s selfless act, stating, “He didn’t stop to think of the fire or the danger.”

The tragic crash in August 2023 highlighted safety concerns surrounding the Osprey, a unique aircraft with both helicopter and airplane capabilities. The incident prompted multiple ongoing reviews to assess the aircraft’s reliability and resources.

Collart’s bravery and sacrifice were remembered by his father as he described him as “one of the best knuckleheads.” The pilots and Collart managed to save the lives of every Marine they were transporting in the fateful crash.

Collart’s actions in trying to save his fellow Marines, despite the imminent danger, displayed the true spirit of the Marine Corps and earned him the admiration and respect of all who knew him.

This heroic story of Cpl. Spencer Collart serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those in uniform, willing to lay down their lives for their comrades and their country.