Liberty University announced that a former soccer player had been among the military members who were killed during an aircraft crash in Australia.
The Christian university situated in Lynchburg, Virginia, announced it was mourning the death of Maj. Tobin J. Lewis, 37, one of the U.S. Marines who was killed when their Osprey MV-22B crashed during a training exercise in Australia, according to a press release from Liberty University.
“The Liberty University family is saddened to learn of the sudden loss of fellow alumnus and Marine Corps pilot Maj. Toby Lewis, who was killed in service to our country,” Dr. Dondi Costin, the president of Liberty University said in a statement.
Liberty mourns the loss of former LU soccer player and Marine Maj. Tobin “Toby” Lewis (’08).https://t.co/LzoJgwAoTU
— Liberty University (@LibertyU) August 31, 2023
“We are constantly reminded of the brevity and frailty of life, even as we look to the author and giver of life, Jesus Christ, for all comfort and joy,” Costin said. “Please join me in praying for his wife, Meredith, and their three precious daughters.”
The Marine Rotational Force-Darwin in Australia confirmed on Sunday that the MV-22B Osprey had crashed on Melville Island, situated north of Darwin, according to a press release.
Out of the 23 people on board, Osprey pilot Capt. Eleanor V. LeBeau, 29, Cpl. Spencer R. Collart, 21, and Lewis were confirmed to be deceased. Five others were taken to Darwin Hospital and were reported to be in serious condition, according to the press release.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of three respected and beloved members of the MRF-D family,” Col. Brendan Sullivan, the commanding officer said. “Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families and with all involved.”
Lewis leaves behind his wife, Meredith, and their three young daughters.