Family Seeks Answers After US Marine Declared Dead Following Training Exercise

Family Demands Clarity on Marine's Disappearance

The relatives of a young US Marine, who went missing during a training drill off the coast of Southern California, are calling for clarity after military authorities announced his death following a thorough search. Lance Corporal Armando Ortiz Canseco, aged 21 and hailing from Richfield, Minnesota, was reported missing early Thursday while serving on the USS Anchorage as part of the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group.

Emotional Vigil Held by Family

On Sunday night, a candlelight vigil took place at Oak Grove Lutheran Church in Richfield, Minnesota, attended by Ortiz Canseco's family, friends, and community members. The church shared on Facebook that the family is praying for Armando's safe return while seeking further information regarding the events leading to his disappearance. "The Marines have stated that Lance Corporal Armando Ortiz Canseco is lost at sea, but they are providing limited information," the church noted, emphasizing the family's ongoing quest for answers.

Search Operation Concludes After 43 Hours

An extensive search operation was initiated by the US Navy after Ortiz Canseco was reported missing shortly after 1 a.m. on Thursday. This operation involved the US Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Air Force, deploying three ships and 12 aircraft over an area of nearly 2,400 square miles. After more than 43 hours without any sign of the missing Marine, officials concluded the active search on Saturday and declared Ortiz Canseco deceased, although recovery efforts are still ongoing.

Marine's Service Began in 2023

Ortiz Canseco became a US Marine in June 2023 after completing his training with Platoon 3210, India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion. During his service, he was awarded the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon and the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal.

Navy Offers Condolences

Capt. Gary A. Harrington, commander of Amphibious Squadron 7, expressed that the loss has profoundly impacted both the Navy and Marine Corps. "The amphibious Navy is designed to operate alongside the Marine Corps, and a loss to the Marine Corps family is a loss to us all," Harrington stated. "We are a resilient force, and we continue to support Lance Cpl. Ortiz Canseco's family and our ongoing recovery efforts." Military officials have yet to provide further details regarding the circumstances of Ortiz Canseco's disappearance, and the incident is still under investigation.