SOF Pic of the Day: Marine Raiders Pose With Local Residents During Retrieval of US-Contracted Surveillance Aircraft That Crashed in the Philippines

Today’s SOF Pic of the Day features Marine Raiders posing with local residents during the retrieval of a US-contracted surveillance aircraft that went down in a rice field a couple of weeks ago.

In a somber reminder of the perils faced by military personnel and contractors alike, a U.S. Marine and three defense contractors lost their lives when a surveillance aircraft contracted by the U.S. military crashed in the southern Philippines. The incident occurred on February 6, 2025, during a routine mission aimed at bolstering intelligence and reconnaissance efforts in the region.

The Mission and the Crash

The ill-fated flight was part of ongoing U.S.-Philippine security cooperation activities. The aircraft, a Beechcraft King Air 350 operated by defense contractor Metrea, was tasked with providing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support at the behest of Philippine allies. Tragically, the plane went down in a rice field in Maguindanao del Sur province, specifically in the town of Ampatuan. Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke emanating from the aircraft, followed by an explosion before it plummeted to the ground. Remarkably, there were no reported injuries on the ground, though a water buffalo was killed in the incident.

Remembering Sgt. Jacob M. Durham

Among the victims was Sgt. Jacob M. Durham, a 22-year-old Marine from Long Beach, California. Sgt. Durham enlisted in the Marine Corps in January 2021 and had recently been promoted to his current rank on February 1, just days before the tragic accident. Serving as an electronic intelligence and electromagnetic warfare analyst with the 1st Radio Battalion, I Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group, Sgt. Durham was recognized for his dedication and expertise. His commendations included the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, a Meritorious Mast, and the Naval Aircrew Insignia.

Reflecting on his service, Lt. Col. Mabel B. Annunziata, commanding officer of the 1st Radio Battalion, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Sgt. Jacob M. Durham stating:

“We mourn the loss of Sgt. Jacob Durham, who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Sgt. Durham embodied the highest traditions of the Marine Corps—exemplifying composure, intelligence, and selfless leadership. He was deeply respected and loved by his fellow Marines. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and his fellow Marines during this profoundly difficult time.” 

The Defense Contractors

The identities of the three defense contractors who perished alongside Sgt. Durham have not been publicly disclosed, pending notification of their families. These individuals played crucial roles in supporting U.S. military operations, often undertaking missions fraught with risk to ensure the success and safety of broader strategic objectives.

Ongoing Investigation

Both the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and Metrea have initiated comprehensive investigations to determine the cause of the crash. While the exact circumstances remain under scrutiny, the incident underscores the inherent dangers associated with military and intelligence operations, even during routine missions.

A History of Cooperation and Sacrifice

The southern Philippines has long been a focal point for U.S. military assistance, with American forces stationed in the region for decades. Their primary mission has been to advise and train Filipino forces in combating various insurgent groups, including Muslim militants. This collaboration has fostered a strong bond between the two nations, built upon shared sacrifices and mutual objectives.

Honoring the Fallen

As the investigation continues, the U.S. military community mourns the loss of Sgt. Durham and the three contractors. Their dedication to their mission and their ultimate sacrifice serve as poignant reminders of the risks undertaken by those who serve, both in uniform and as civilian support, in pursuit of global security and stability.